
Unlock Act Could Reshape Section 401 Pipeline Permitting
Senator McCormick’s Unlock Act could reshape Clean Water Act Section 401 permitting, litigation timelines, and pipeline execution risk.
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Senator McCormick’s Unlock Act could reshape Clean Water Act Section 401 permitting, litigation timelines, and pipeline execution risk.

Arbo’s quarterly infrastructure update examines 2027 pipeline capacity additions, LNG project timing, and the emerging shift toward data center demand.

FERC’s pre-filing process and ex parte rules explained — how this option can shape project timelines, regulatory strategy, and litigation risk.

With rising demand, evergreen clauses in transportation contracts may become increasingly important in shaping how and where firm capacity is retained.

Intensity Infrastructure Partners secures firm transportation commitments, advancing Phase I toward a 2029 in-service date — a signal that gas-to-power demand may support multiple pipelines without state underwriting.

Four new proposals aim to fix Section 401 of the Clean Water Act, which has delayed pipeline projects for years through endless withdrawals and resubmittals. Learn how EPA rules and Congressional bills seek to narrow scope, standardize requirements, and end the timing reset loop.

Quarterly update tracking major U.S. natural gas pipeline projects expected in 2026, including CP Express, Blackcomb, Hugh Brinson, and Texas intrastate expansions. Analysis covers construction progress, regulatory milestones, and Arbo’s forecasted in-service dates.

2026 brings 22 Bcf/d of projected pipeline capacity additions as permitting reform advances and litigation patterns shift post-Seven County. We’re watching closely for NESE and Constitution pipeline revivals, FERC blanket authority expansion, CWA 401 disputes, and the intersection of AI-driven power demand with gas infrastructure development across evolving regulatory and political landscapes.

2025 brought major shifts in energy infrastructure: 6 Bcf/d of new pipeline capacity entered service as federal litigation risk declined following Seven County. A fully seated FERC Commission and surging AI power demand accelerated gas project development while environmental challenges moved to state courts.