Keystone Energy Forum

On July 1, an unfortunate incident occurred in Montana with the release of oil from a pipeline into the Yellowstone River. We extend our sympathies to all those impacted. As an industry we must learn from this incident and take any necessary steps to improve performance and ensure the public that pipelines are operated in the safest manner possible. We will do this with the Keystone XL pipeline.

Keystone XL is a 1,700-mile proposed pipeline that would carry Canadian and U.S. crude oil to U.S. refineries including those at the U.S. Gulf Coast. Using the most advanced technology, the pipeline will be monitored 24 hours a day through a centralized control center. Sixteen-thousand sensors embedded in the pipeline provide data via satellite every five seconds. If the slightest drop in pipeline pressure is detected, remote valves are automatically closed, shutting off the flow of oil within minutes.

Our pipeline would cross Montana’s Yellowstone River. As Gov. Brian Schweitzer pointed out, Keystone XL will use the most advanced construction techniques, including horizontal directional drilling that allows us to drill under the river a minimum of 25 feet. The pipe will be built with thicker steel, operate at a lower pressure and use advanced coatings to protect the surface from abrasion — all in an effort to further improve safety.