Mariner East 1 pipeline resumes service; ME2, ME2X construction halted

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) issued an order allowing Sunoco Pipeline, also known as Energy Transfer Partners, to resume operations of the Mariner East 1 pipeline, while also continuing an injunction against construction of the Mariner East 2 (ME2) and Mariner East 2X (ME2X) pipelines in West Whiteland Township, Chester County.

By July 4, Energy Transfer Partners must relay its inspection and testing protocols, emergency response plan and safety training curriculum for employees and contractors to the PUC for review.

At an upcoming public meeting, the PUC will make a determination on whether Energy Transfer Partners may resume construction on ME2 and ME2X. The PUC also is requiring Energy Transfer Partners to file a verification or affidavit that the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has issued the appropriate permission for continued construction.

The Mariner East projects are designed to provide needed pipeline infrastructure to transport ethane, propane and other petroleum products from the Marcellus Shale to markets in Pennsylvania and elsewhere. In March, the PUC ordered Sunoco Pipeline to temporarily suspend operations of the Mariner East 1 pipeline over safety concerns stemming from sinkholes that developed near the pipeline.