WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Pete Domenici, ranking member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, today issued the following statement regarding news that BP and ConocoPhillips will start Denali – The Alaska Gas Pipeline:

 

            “I am very pleased to learn that the Alaska Gas Pipeline project is finally underway.  Today’s announcement that BP and ConocoPhillips plan to spend $600 million to build a 700 mile pipeline is good news for Alaska and for all Americans that rely on natural gas.

 

            “Ultimately, when constructed, the new Alaska Gas Pipeline will bring natural gas in Alaska’s North Slope to Alberta, where it can eventually connect with existing lines and be brought to the lower 48 states.  With uncertainty surrounding our ability to meet future natural gas demand, and the potential for more exploration in Alaska as a result of constructing the pipeline, this project is vital.  I look forward to the beginning of this project and congratulate all the parties involved for their hard work.