U.S. midstream companies ONEOK, WhiteWater, MPLX LP, and Canada-based Enbridge Inc. have reached a final investment decision (FID) on a new natural gas pipeline through their existing Matterhorn joint venture. The project aims to transport growing natural gas production from the Permian Basin in the US.
The planned Eiger Express Pipeline will have a capacity of approximately 26 bcm/year and will carry natural gas from the Permian Basin to the Katy area, near Houston, Texas. It will also include reserved capacity for deliveries to the Corpus Christi market. The pipeline will source gas from processing facilities — including those owned by ONEOK and MPLX — and connect to pipelines in the Midland and Delaware basins. Its route will generally follow that of the existing Matterhorn Express Pipeline.
The Matterhorn JV will own 70% of the Eiger Express Pipeline. In addition, ONEOK and MPLX will each hold 15% direct stakes outside of the JV. This brings their total ownership shares to approximately 25.5% for ONEOK and 22% for MPLX.
WhiteWater will lead the construction and operation of the pipeline, which is expected to be completed by mid-2028, pending customary regulatory and other approvals.