Dakota Access pipeline wants NorthWestern power

The proposed Dakota Access crude-oil pipeline that would run from the North Dakota fields through South Dakota would have one pump station within South Dakota, according to the developers. That pump station would be in Spink County just north of Crandon and southeast of Redfield. While the pipeline project awaits permit consideration by the state Public Utilities Commission, Dakota Access is asking the PUC to allow the pump station to receive electricity from NorthWestern Energy. Technically, the pump station would be in the service territory of Northern Electric cooperative. But a NWE line runs through the precise area of the pump station. Dakota Access in its new filing with the PUC on June 16 said it can receive “reliable electrical service at an economic rate and without extensive development of facilities to provide such service.” The PUC will establish a schedule to consider the request by Dakota Access to use NorthWestern. Meanwhile the main evidentiary hearing on the Dakota Access construction permit is set for Sept. 29 through Oct. 8 if necessary. The main docket on the pipeline permit is available here on the PUC web site.