Grand Forks, N.D. – The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) was awarded $400,000 from the North Dakota Industrial Commission’s Oil and Gas Research Program (OGRP) for iPIPE 2.0, the next phase of the intelligent Pipeline Integrity Program (iPIPE). iPIPE 2.0 builds on the program’s experience with new technologies to prevent and detect pipeline leaks. The OGRP funding is matched with financial support from iPIPE’s industry members.
iPIPE has grown since inception and presently consists of seven member companies. Its members are enthusiastic about continuing to explore and develop new technologies that enhance pipeline integrity and safety through iPIPE. Industry members in iPIPE are DCP Midstream, Enbridge, Energy Transfer, Hess, Marathon Petroleum, ONEOK, and TC Energy. iPIPE is managed by the EERC.
To date, over 140 technologies have been vetted through iPIPE, with six of those technologies selected for further development toward commercial solutions. This renewed funding will advance those technologies and allow for selection of new technologies designed to reduce the frequency and duration of pipeline releases.
“OGRP’s support for iPIPE through this funding allows us to continue on the journey to an era of zero pipeline releases,” says Darren Schmidt, EERC Assistant Director for Energy, Oil, and Gas. “iPIPE and its partners are already applying and engaging with rapidly advancing technologies, such as intelligent sensors and satellite systems which provide for greater precision and accuracy in monitoring pipeline integrity. This next phase of iPIPE will build on our previous learnings and continue momentum.” iPIPE member organizations contribute financially to participate in the partnership. The benefit to an individual member is the leveraging of resources and collaboration with companies facing similar issues. Members share experience and knowledge for new approaches to leak detection and prevention and a collective voice on pipeline safety. The industry contribution to the partnership totals $1,050,000 and supports a 2-year program.
Questions or media inquiries can be directed to:
Nikki Massmann, Director of Communications, EERC
701-777-5428 | nmassmann@undeerc.org