Rockies Express Pipeline LLC (REX), Cheyenne Connector LLC (Cheyenne Connector), and East Cheyenne Gas Storage LLC (East Cheyenne) have collectively filed an application with the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requesting authorizations for the Critical Energy Reliability Link Project. The project is located in Weld, Adams, Arapahoe, Elbert, El Paso, and Lincoln Counties, Colorado.
Specifically, REX requests authorization to expand its system by installing a total of approximately 160 miles (257 km) of 24-inch- (61-cm)-diameter pipeline, the new 6195-hp (4621 kW) LaSalle Compressor Station (CS), three new meter stations, and appurtenant facilities.
The project is intended to provide up to 100,000 Dth/d of firm transportation service and 50,000 Dth/d of new no notice service to new delivery points near Colorado Springs, Colorado, for Colorado Springs Utilities (CSU).
The LaSalle CS will include the installation of three gas-fired compressors. REX is evaluating the option of electric motor-driven compression at the proposed LaSalle CS as an alternative to gas-fired engines. To meet the project requirements and provide a similar level of operational flexibility as the proposed natural gas-driven compressors, 8-MW electric motor-driven compression units with equivalent hp would be required. REX is continuing to consult with the local electricity provider to determine the feasibility of obtaining electric power to support the use of electric motors. However, until and unless the utility can demonstrate and commit to delivering the required electricity at competitive rates, the electric motor-driven compression cannot be incorporated into the project, but is still considered an option.
The project will provide optionality to CSU to supplement and offset its coal-fired facilities with gas-fired generation to meet its greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction goals, support and facilitate compliance with Colorado’s GHG reduction mandates, address growing electricity demand in the Colorado Springs region, provide strategic sources of fuel to generate electricity, satisfy projected peak demand growth in CSU’s local distribution system, and more.
