Permian-to-Katy Eiger Express Expansion Advances to 3.7 Bcf/d

WhiteWater has expanded its Eiger Express Pipeline project, upsizing the Permian-to-Katy line from 42 to 48 inches and boosting capacity to 3.7 Bcf/d. Backed by the Matterhorn JV, ONEOK, MPLX and Enbridge, the project strengthens long-haul gas takeaway to Gulf Coast and LNG export markets while remaining on track for a mid-2028 in-service date.

 

WhiteWater has expanded the planned capacity of its Eiger Express Pipeline, increasing the mainline from 2.5 Bcf/d to 3.7 Bcf/d after securing additional firm transportation agreements, the company announced.

 

To accommodate the higher capacity, the project has been upsized from a 42-inch to a 48-inch diameter pipe, along with additional compression. Despite the redesign, WhiteWater said the expansion will not change the expected in-service date of mid-2028, pending regulatory approvals.

The Eiger Express, designed to move Permian Basin natural gas to the Katy, Texas hub, is owned by a joint venture of the Matterhorn JV (70%), ONEOK (15%) and MPLX (15%). The Matterhorn JV includes WhiteWater (65%), ONEOK (15%), MPLX (10%) and Enbridge (10%), and provides long-haul transportation from West Texas to Gulf Coast markets with direct access to LNG export demand.

WhiteWater’s ownership in the Matterhorn JV is held through FIC and I Squared Capital. ONEOK and MPLX also hold incremental direct stakes in the Eiger Express joint venture.

The expansion comes as Permian takeaway capacity tightens amid surging gas production and growing Gulf Coast LNG feedgas demand.