Sabal Trail Transmission

Striking a pipeline could cause injuries, damage property, disrupt vital services to an entire area and lead to expensive fines and repair costs. There is always a risk of striking a pipeline or other utility, even if you think you know what might be present in the area. The depth of utility lines can vary for a number of reasons, such as erosion, previous digging projects and uneven surfaces.

Compressor stations are used to move natural gas through pipelines. They are above-ground facilities located generally every 40 to 100 miles along a pipeline. Compressor stations use natural gas or electricity to power compressors to safely pressurize the natural gas, which helps the natural gas flow efficiently for safe and reliable service.

Pipelines are the safest, most environmentally friendly and efficient mode of transportation, according to PHMSA. In fact, data shows that while natural gas demand has increased, the frequency of serious pipeline incidents has decreased by 90 percent over the last three decades alone, primarily as a result of significant efforts by pipeline companies to upgrade and modernize infrastructure.

Transmission pipelines deliver natural gas to local distribution companies, which distribute the product through their regional or municipal networks to homes and businesses for heat and energy. They also deliver natural gas directly to large industrial end-users, including electric generating facilities.