The U.S. energy sector is undergoing a transformational shift, and at the heart of this change is the DeLa Express pipeline project. As the demand for natural gas continues to soar—both domestically and globally—the need for advanced infrastructure to transport these energy resources efficiently has never been greater. The DeLa Express pipeline, developed by DeLa Express LLC (a subsidiary of Moss Lake Partners LP), represents a crucial leap forward in meeting these demands while addressing environmental concerns in one of the world’s most prolific oil and gas regions, the Permian Basin.
What is the DeLa Express Pipeline?
The DeLa Express pipeline is a long-haul, large-diameter system designed to transport liquids-rich natural gas from the Permian Basin in West Texas to the U.S. Gulf Coast, with the capacity to serve international export markets. This 645-mile, 42-inch diameter mainline will be complemented by 139 miles of associated laterals, forming a massive energy conduit capable of transporting over 2 billion cubic feet per day (BCF/d) of natural gas and liquids.
To put this capacity into perspective, it’s enough to meet the daily energy needs of a major U.S. city like Chicago, Illinois. The pipeline is not just another infrastructure project; it’s a critical solution to address bottlenecks in pipeline capacity from the Permian Basin, one of the most vital energy-producing regions in the world.
Addressing Environmental and Market Needs
One of the key goals of the DeLa Express project is to reduce flaring and emissions in the Permian Basin. Flaring—burning off excess natural gas due to limited infrastructure—has been a persistent issue in the region. By providing a comprehensive solution to transport natural gas and liquids through a single mainline, the project will help minimize waste and emissions, turning what was once a byproduct into a valuable resource.
The pipeline will also supply major demand centers such as Cameron Parish, Louisiana—North America’s largest LNG demand hub. This connection is crucial as global markets continue to shift towards cleaner energy sources, and the demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) increases.
Pipeline Map
Why Wood Was Chosen as the Lead for Engineering Design
A project of this magnitude requires an experienced and trusted partner to bring it to life. Enter Wood, one of the leading engineering and consulting firms in the energy industry. Wood was awarded the front-end engineering design (FEED) contract for DeLa Express due to its proven expertise in delivering complex natural gas pipeline systems. Recent projects like the Grey Oak Pipeline, ExxonMobil’s Delaware Connector, and Williams’ Regional Energy Access demonstrate Wood’s ability to handle large-scale infrastructure projects while navigating regulatory hurdles, such as the FERC permitting process.
Jeremy Hall, Senior Vice President of Oil, Gas, and New Energies Americas for Wood, emphasized the pipeline’s importance, stating, “As demand for natural gas increases, the project will provide a transformational answer to the strained existing pipeline capacity from the Permian Basin.”
Eric J. Carmichael, Senior Vice President of EPC Projects for Moss Lake Partners, added, “Given the remarkable interest from Permian producers, global consumers, and private capital markets, Wood is the natural choice to spearhead one of our premiere infrastructure development projects.”
A Step Forward for U.S. Energy Security
The DeLa Express pipeline represents more than just a transportation route for natural gas. It is a critical piece of infrastructure that strengthens U.S. energy security, both domestically and on the global stage. As the U.S. becomes an increasingly important player in the international energy market, projects like DeLa Express ensure that natural gas can flow efficiently from production sites to consumers worldwide, all while reducing the environmental impact associated with flaring and emissions.
Looking Ahead
As the world transitions to a more energy-diverse future, pipelines like DeLa Express will play an essential role in balancing the demand for natural gas with environmental sustainability. The project marks a significant step toward modernizing U.S. energy infrastructure while addressing key environmental concerns in the Permian Basin.
The DeLa Express pipeline promises to be a cornerstone in the continued evolution of America’s energy landscape, connecting the Permian Basin to critical markets and supporting the global transition to cleaner energy.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting development in U.S. energy infrastructure.
