Sakonnet River Replacement Project

Algonquin Gas Transmission’s interstate natural gas pipeline network includes an existing six-inch diameter pipeline located in Portsmouth and Little Compton, Rhode Island, which crosses the Sakonnet River. Algonquin delivers natural gas to Rhode Island Energy, the local gas distribution company serving homes and businesses in the area.  The Algonquin pipeline was originally installed in 1954.

As part of our commitment to safe and responsible operations, Algonquin routinely inspects and maintains its pipeline facilities to continue to help the region meet its everyday energy needs. Algonquin is planning a pipeline maintenance project in Portsmouth and Little Compton that will install a new replacement pipeline, and related facilities, primarily within the same right-of-way as the existing pipeline.

This will allow us to continue to meet the energy needs of Aquidneck Island. The map on this webpage provides information on the approximate location of the work that will take place between our existing meter and regulating station on Old Mill Lane in Portsmouth and the eastern shore of the Sakonnet River in Little Compton. After the replacement pipeline is installed and operational, Algonquin intends to abandon the existing pipeline in place by filling it with grout.

Project construction will include the use of Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)—a common construction method which helps to reduce construction and environmental impacts for our neighbors. Please see this fact sheet for further information. We have been and will continue to communicate with our neighbors and other stakeholders throughout the project to address any questions which may come up.

Mobilization of this project has commenced. We anticipate construction of the maintenance project to be completed in the spring of 2025, and site restoration to be complete by the end of 2025. Any updates regarding the construction timeline will be updated on this site.

Should you have any questions, please contact a project representative at 1-877-379-0338. You may also participate in the review process by submitting comments to FERC; to do so, please visit the FERC website.

Click on image above for larger version of project map