-Quantum Energy is proposing to build five $500 million “micro-refineries” in North Dakota that would strip light gases from Bakken crude being transported by rail — thus reducing the potential for explosions following train accidents. Via Reuters, some industry officials are skeptical of Quantum’s ability to market and sell light gases other than propane.
-Energy analysts say numerous challenges will limit U.S. condensate exports in the wake of the Commerce Department’s decision to allow two companies to sell minimally refined light oil abroad. Via Platts, infrastructure constraints, high shipping costs and foreign competition are likely to blunt the decision’s impact on the current U.S. crude balance.
-Williams today completed the $6 billion acquisition of the 50% general partner interest in Access Midstream Partners. Williams is proposing a merger with Access Midstream, which would create one of the largest master limited partnerships in the U.S.
-One day after it announced an LNG purchase deal with a firm in Singapore, Cheniere Energy signed a new long-term contract to sell natural gas from Corpus Christi Liquefaction to PT Pertamina of Indonesia. PT Pertamina has now signed two 20-year agreements to buy LNG from Cheniere, each of which is for 760,000 tons per year.
-New York’s highest court on Monday ruled that cities and towns have the right to ban fracking within their borders. Via Bloomberg, analysts believe the ruling could discourage energy companies from investing in gas production in the state.
