Pipelines are the most common, cheapest, and most energy efficient way to transport liquids and gasses over long and short distances. Pipelines transport crude oil from its extraction location to a refinery, where it gets separated into usable components. Natural gas is also transported through pipelines in a gaseous form.

 

Any chemically stable liquids or gas can be transported through a pipeline. Pipes can be made of steel or plastic, and the liquids are moved through them in a particular direction by pump stations along the line. Natural gas is often compressed into a liquid known as a Natural Gas Liquid (NGL) for transportation, but can also be moved in its gaseous form at high pressures. Pipelines are regulated remotely via control stations and valve stations to control pressure.

 

Considerations: Pipelines require a large upfront investment and rights-of-way where they can travel. Some considerations for pipelines include the environmental impact of leaks and spills, and their susceptibility to sabotage. This can be reduced by building pipelines underground where they are less susceptible to weather, corrosion, and other possible sources of damage. One drawback to underground pipelines is that it is more difficult to detect leaks.

 

Pipelines have received pushback from Indigenous rights activists and environmentalists concerned about the location of proposed pipelines, their potential environmental impact, and their status as long-lasting investment in carbon-intensive fossil fuels.