Multiple Oil, Gas Pipeline Projects in the U.S. Canceled or Halted

It’s only Tuesday and already this week has been a major win for those protesting oil and gas pipelines. Dominion Energy and Duke Energy have canceled the construction of the Atlantic Coast Pipeline project which would have stretched hundreds of miles across West Virginia, Virginia and North Carolina. Since it was announced in 2014, the pipeline has faced continual delays, harsh criticism, and legal battles spearheaded by environmental groups. It was ultimately decided the project was becoming too expensive and drawn out. It’s been reported the companies will now focus on producing more energy efficient methods. The U.S. Supreme Court has also significantly delayed the expansion of the controversial Keystone XL Pipeline expansion. It will be subject to a lengthy environmental review which could also force the companies to cancel the project if it becomes too costly. Similarly, a federal judge has ordered the shutdown and emptying of the Dakota Access Pipeline until it undergoes a thorough environmental review.