By the OGJ Online Staff
HOUSTON, Aug. 8 -- Williams Cos. Inc., Tulsa, has leased underground salt storage caverns in LaFourche Parish, La., that it intends to develop into a 10 bcf gas storage facility in phases over the next 5 years.
Williams entered into the agreement with brine provider Texas Brine Co. for the Chacahoula salt caverns 10 miles southwest of Thidobaux.
Williams said the facility will eventually have a 1 bcfd withdrawal capacity. It plans to market the storage capacity through an open season.
The facility will be connected to several pipeline systems, including Williams's Transco and Texas Gas systems, to create a hub.
Steve Malcolm, president and CEO of Williams's energy services group, said, "The Chacahoula gas storage facility is the first of several planned to expand our natural gas infrastructure in support of our power commitments and natural gas peaking services."