Overview
Hilltop Compressor Station is a natural gas pipeline facility located 24 km south of Bloomfield, New Mexico, United States. It operates under US PHMSA and DOT 49 CFR Part 192 regulations.
Hilltop Compressor Station is a natural gas pipeline facility situated in San Juan County, New Mexico, approximately 24 kilometers south of Bloomfield. As part of the extensive US natural gas transmission network, this compressor station plays a critical role in maintaining gas flow and pressure along the pipeline system. The facility is classified under NAICS code 486210 for pipeline transportation of natural gas. The station operates under the regulatory framework of the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. Compressor stations like this one are essential for boosting pressure to move natural gas over long distances, and they typically include gas turbines or electric motors, cooling systems, and safety valves. The facility's location in the San Juan Basin, a major natural gas producing region, underscores its strategic importance. Environmentally, the station's operation involves combustion emissions from compressors and potential methane leakage, which are subject to EPA and state air quality regulations. The facility's proximity to rural areas and waterways requires careful monitoring to prevent leaks and ensure community safety. As part of the national gas grid, Hilltop Compressor Station contributes to energy supply reliability for residential, commercial, and industrial users across the region.
Environmental context
Located in the semi-arid San Juan Basin, the facility operates in an area with sensitive ecosystems and water resources. Natural gas compressor stations can contribute to air emissions, including nitrogen oxides and methane, which are regulated under the Clean Air Act. Proximity to the San Juan River and agricultural lands necessitates robust leak detection and cathodic protection systems to prevent soil and water contamination. The region's oil and gas activity also raises concerns about cumulative environmental impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Hilltop Compressor Station is located approximately 24 kilometers south of Bloomfield, in San Juan County, New Mexico, United States.
Hilltop Compressor Station is a natural gas pipeline facility that compresses gas to maintain pressure and flow within the pipeline system, ensuring efficient transportation of natural gas.
The facility is regulated by the US Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which sets safety standards for gas pipelines.
Safety measures include cathodic protection to prevent corrosion, automatic shut-off valves, leak detection systems, and regular inspections as required by PHMSA regulations.
Compressor stations emit air pollutants from engines and can have methane leaks. They are subject to EPA air quality permits and must implement leak detection and repair programs to minimize environmental impact.
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