Golden Triangle Storage LLC (Golden Triangle) has received US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) approval to begin construction activities associated with the Golden Triangle Storage Expansion Project (see “Contracts & Permits,” November 2023 Gas Compression Magazine, p. 4).
The project consists of expanding its existing natural gas storage facility in Jefferson County, Texas, through the construction and operation of two new salt dome storage caverns, 33,000 hp (14,618 kW) of additional compression, a new brine disposal pipeline, and other appurtenant facilities. The purpose of the project is to meet market demand for increased storage capacity and enhance operational capabilities at the existing storage facilities. The expansion will add approximately 14.4 Bscf (407.8 x 106 m3) of new natural gas storage capacity to its existing storage facilities, as well as an incremental 442 MMscf/d (12,516 m3/d) of injection capability and 860 MMscf/d (24,352 m3/d) of withdrawal capability.
The cavern sites will include two wellheads, with associated valves, for solution mining and natural gas injection/withdrawal; piping, electrical, and instruments; and permanent well pads. Once completed, Cavern 3 will have a working gas capacity of 8.2 Bscf (232.2 x 106 m3) and Cavern 4 will have a working gas capacity of 6.2 Bscf (175.6 x 106 m3).
Golden Triangle will add six compressors to the existing Central Compressor Station located at the Central Storage Site. Each Caterpillar/Ariel compressor package will be rated at 5500 hp (4103 kW). Additional compressors are required for injection and withdrawal of natural gas from the two new caverns and the pipeline header at the increased rates of flow. The Central Compressor Station currently has three compressors generating 14,205 hp (10,597 kW).
The new facilities are expected to begin service in April 2026.
