North Slope pipeline company seeks to double metering capacity at TAPS

Kuparuk Transportation Company filed June 1 to nearly double metering capacity at Pump Station 1, a move that could accommodate higher North Slope crude volumes as new fields come online.

The company asked the Regulatory Commission of Alaska to authorize modifications at Pump Station 1 that would boost metering capacity from 360,000 barrels per day to 634,000 barrels per day, a 76% increase. The application also includes construction of a new meter module and surge relief protection at the facility.

The filing, tracked as Docket P-26-009, does not explain what's driving the capacity request. Earlier platform coverage noted that Pikka field production has begun and ConocoPhillips is preparing infrastructure for Willow development. A 2013 state study found that several North Slope pipelines, including Kuparuk, were already nearly full, a constraint that's shaped subsequent infrastructure planning in the region.

The commission will determine whether the filing is complete by June 23. Public comments are due by 5 p.m. June 26. Requests for special accommodations for individuals with disabilities must be submitted to the commission by June 19.