ONEOK, Enbridge, and MPLX Launch Eiger Express Pipeline to Strengthen Permian-to-Gulf Natural Gas Connectivity

ONEOK, Inc., in partnership with Enbridge, MPLX, and WhiteWater, has officially announced the launch of the Eiger Express Pipeline, a significant new project designed to transport natural gas from the resource-rich Permian Basin to the critical energy markets along the Texas Gulf Coast. This major midstream infrastructure development underscores the growing demand for expanded natural gas takeaway capacity amid record production volumes in the Permian.

Eiger Express Pipeline to Span 450 Miles with 2.5 Bcf/d Capacity

The Eiger Express Pipeline will stretch approximately 450 miles and offer a transportation capacity of 2.5 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d). The project is being developed under the existing Matterhorn Express joint venture, with Matterhorn holding a 70% stake, while ONEOK and MPLX each maintain a 15% ownership interest. However, due to its stake in the joint venture itself, ONEOK’s effective equity interest in the Eiger Express Pipeline totals 25.5%, positioning the company as a primary stakeholder in the project.

The new pipeline will connect gas processing facilities operated by both ONEOK and MPLX, as well as other key gathering points across the Midland and Delaware sub-basins of the Permian Basin. From there, natural gas will be transported to the Katy area near Houston, with additional takeaway capacity reserved for Corpus Christi, enhancing access to downstream markets, petrochemical facilities, and export terminals, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) hubs.

Long-Term Contracts Provide Financial Stability for the Project

To ensure commercial viability and financial stability, the Eiger Express Pipeline is backed by firm transportation agreements lasting 10 years or longer. These long-term commitments provide predictable, fee-based revenue streams and highlight the confidence of shippers in the future demand for natural gas transportation to the Gulf Coast.

WhiteWater will oversee the pipeline’s construction and operational activities. The project is currently undergoing standard regulatory review and is expected to enter service by mid-2028. Once completed, the Eiger Express will provide critical capacity relief in one of the most active natural gas production regions in the United States.

ONEOK Expands Strategic Footprint in Midstream Sector

For ONEOK, the Eiger Express Pipeline represents a significant strategic expansion in the highly competitive Permian-to-Gulf natural gas corridor. The project will not only diversify ONEOK’s midstream asset base but also enhance its ability to serve growing domestic and global energy markets. With access to LNG terminals and coastal demand centers, the pipeline positions ONEOK and its partners to benefit from the continued rise in global demand for U.S.-sourced natural gas.

The timing of the Eiger Express announcement reflects increasing pressure on midstream operators to provide reliable, scalable infrastructure in response to rising Permian Basin output and tightening capacity constraints on existing pipeline systems.

Conclusion: Eiger Express Set to Shape the Future of Permian Basin Natural Gas Transport

As the global energy landscape evolves, the Eiger Express Pipeline marks a pivotal step in ensuring that Permian Basin producers have efficient access to the Gulf Coast and export markets. ONEOK’s investment in this high-capacity, long-distance infrastructure reinforces its position as a leader in the U.S. midstream energy sector and demonstrates a forward-looking commitment to meeting both domestic energy needs and international demand.

For investors, regulators, and industry stakeholders, the Eiger Express Pipeline project is a key development to watch as it progresses toward its anticipated 2028 launch.