Summit Midstream Expands Double E Pipeline Capacity Amid High Demand

Summit Midstream Corporation (NYSE: SMC) recently unveiled substantial news regarding its continued commercial success across two of its significant growth platforms: the Double E Pipeline located in the Permian Basin and its crude oil gathering systems situated in the Williston Basin. This announcement indicates a vigorous demand from shippers, prompting the company to make strategic adjustments.

Recent Developments

As of June 8, 2026, Summit Midstream executed two new long-term transportation agreements that added up to 150 MMcf/d, elevating the total commitments during the Double E open season to a notable 250 MMcf/d. This increase brings the overall contracted capacity for the pipeline to approximately 1.9 Bcf/d, which is a significant achievement for the company and reflects its active engagement with the market.

In response to high interest rates from various shippers, the company has decided to extend the open season until June 30, 2026. Ongoing discussions with shippers are leading to prospects that exceed available expansion capacities. The company is in the process of finalizing its decision for investments (FID) regarding the Double E compression expansion by the end of summer.

As part of its preparatory work for this major project, Summit has executed purchase orders for turbine compressor units, which are crucial for maintaining the end-of-2028 target in-service date for the expansion program. The compression expansion aims to increase the pipeline's capacity by nearly 50%, raising it from approximately 1.6 Bcf/d to around 2.4 Bcf/d.

Expansion in the Williston Basin

In addition to the developments at Double E, Summit Midstream has also made strides in the Williston Basin. A new crude oil gathering agreement has been signed in Divide County, North Dakota, covering an expansive area of over 40,000 acres, allowing for the connection of 15 new lateral wells expected to be operational by the end of 2026. This agreement complements similar arrangements that have taken place, reflecting a broader recovery and operator mobility in the northern and western parts of the Williston Basin.

CEO Heath Deneke expressed satisfaction with the ongoing progress in securing commercial commitments for the Double E expansion, noting that interest from shippers continues to surpass initial expectations. The company’s proactive steps toward solidifying its operational footprint affirm its commitment to supporting expansion in a dynamic energy landscape fueled by the growing demand for natural gas and crude oil transportation services.

Looking Ahead

As Summit Midstream looks ahead, the extended open season means that the company is actively working on securing additional binding commitments from shippers. The remaining available capacity will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that the company maximizes its opportunities.

Overall, the strategic initiatives launched by Summit Midstream position it well for significant growth in the midstream energy sector, confirming its status as a core player in facilitating resource transportation in the continental U.S. The enhancements in both the Double E Pipeline and the Williston Basin crude oil gathering systems are likely to support greater operational efficiency and robust revenue streams as demand continues to evolve.