#United States #Austin #Whitewater #MPLX #Eiger Express

Major Pipeline Capacity Expansion: Eiger Express

WhiteWater has made waves in the energy sector with the recent announcement of an expansion to the Eiger Express Pipeline, increasing its mainline capacity from 2.5 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) to an impressive 3.7 Bcf/d. This strategic enhancement is designed to cater to the increasing demand for natural gas, particularly from the Permian Basin in West Texas, a region known for its significant hydrocarbon production.

Details of the Expansion

The Eiger Express Pipeline underwent a considerable upsizing, changing from a 42-inch diameter to a 48-inch diameter pipeline. This modification is coupled with the installation of incremental compression to bolster the pipeline's capacity further. Despite the ambitious increase in capacity, WhiteWater assures that this expansion will not alter the previously announced in-service date of mid-2028, pending customary regulatory approvals.

The company has secured additional firm transportation agreements since the project's announcement in August 2025, reinforcing the necessity for this expansion. The Eiger Express Pipeline is critical in transporting natural gas from the Permian Basin to the Katy area, providing a vital link to LNG export markets along the Gulf Coast.

Joint Venture Advantages

The Eiger Express Pipeline is owned collectively by a joint venture, comprising Matterhorn JV (holding 70%), ONEOK (15%), and MPLX (15%). This collaboration boosts the project's stability and operating efficiency. Notably, the Matterhorn JV itself is comprised of WhiteWater (65%), ONEOK (15%), MPLX (10%), and Enbridge (10%). Each party's expertise and resources contribute significantly to the successful operation of this critical infrastructure.

WhiteWater’s participation in the Matterhorn JV is backed by investment firms FIC and I Squared Capital, both known for their focus on crucial infrastructure assets in the energy sector. This collaboration underscores the strategic importance of the Eiger Express in meeting the growing energy demands while also facilitating the decarbonization of industrial activities.

About WhiteWater

Based in Austin, Texas, WhiteWater operates multiple gas transmission assets, including not only the Eiger Express but also the Matterhorn Express Pipeline. Their partnership network includes various private equity firms, illustrating a broad base of support for their expansion initiatives. More information about WhiteWater’s operations can be found at whitewater.com.

Industry Context and Future Implications

As the demand for natural gas continues to rise, driven by technological advances and environmental considerations, expansions like those of the Eiger Express Pipeline place WhiteWater in a strong position. The existing pipeline infrastructure is becoming increasingly essential to support the transition toward more sustainable energy practices and the global push for renewables.

Conclusion

WhiteWater's expansion of the Eiger Express Pipeline illustrates a proactive approach to meet the escalating energy demands in the U.S. and ensure the integrity of the nation’s energy supply chain. With necessary regulatory approvals in view, this development's anticipated impact on both local and global energy markets will be significant as we approach 2028. The enhanced capacity will not only facilitate access to natural gas resources but will also play a pivotal role in the overall energy ecosystem, aligning with the market's push toward cleaner energy solutions.