Devon Energy and its partners have reached a final investment decision (FID) on the Solitude Pipeline System, a major new natural gas takeaway project designed to move Permian Basin production to Katy, Texas. The WhiteWater-led joint venture plans to place the system into service in the second half of 2029, providing an important new route between West Texas production and Gulf Coast gas markets.
Solitude will be developed in phases, with approximately 2.25 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of initial transportation capacity expected in late 2029. A second phase scheduled for 2030 will add another 2.25 Bcf/d, bringing planned capacity to roughly 4.5 Bcf/d. The system can also be expanded in response to additional shipper demand. Long-term firm transportation agreements with investment-grade shippers are supporting the development.
WhiteWater holds a 50% interest in the joint venture, while Devon owns 25%. MPLX holds 10%, with Diamondback Energy and Western Midstream each owning 7.5%. Devon has also secured firm transportation capacity on Solitude as part of a broader strategy to improve market access for its Delaware Basin natural gas production. The operator has entered international liquefied natural gas (LNG)-linked pricing agreements covering 100 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d) beginning in 2027 and another 150 MMcf/d starting in 2028.
For pipeline contractors and suppliers, the FID moves Solitude into a more advanced development stage ahead of its 2029 startup. A pipeline system capable of transporting 4.5 Bcf/d will require substantial midstream infrastructure as development progresses, creating a significant project to watch for companies serving Permian Basin and Texas pipeline construction markets.
Industry Impact
Solitude adds another major outlet for growing Permian natural gas supplies and strengthens the connection between the Delaware Basin and Gulf Coast markets. The additional takeaway capacity could become increasingly important as LNG exports, power generation and other sources of Texas gas demand expand toward the end of the decade.
Two-Sentence Summary
Devon Energy and WhiteWater have reached FID on the Solitude Pipeline System, which is planned to provide up to 4.5 Bcf/d of natural gas transportation capacity from the Permian Basin to Katy, Texas. Initial service is expected in the second half of 2029, followed by an additional 2.25 Bcf/d of capacity in 2030.
Author: phinds