Merit Energy - Panoma Booster Station: Gas Pipeline Facility in Hugoton, Kansas

Merit Energy - Panoma Booster Station is a gas pipeline facility located in Hugoton, Stevens County, Kansas, United States. The facility is operational and plays a role in the natural gas transmission network, serving the broader energy infrastructure of the region. As a booster station, it helps maintain pressure and flow in the pipeline system, which is critical for efficient gas transport. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Department of Transportation (DOT) 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. The NAICS code 486210 indicates it is part of the pipeline transportation of natural gas sector. Booster stations of this type typically handle medium to large volumes of gas, supporting regional distribution networks. Located in the Hugoton area, the facility is situated in a region known for natural gas production and processing. Its operational significance lies in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the gas transmission system, which serves industrial, commercial, and residential customers. The environmental context includes proximity to agricultural land and rural communities, requiring adherence to safety and environmental regulations to minimize risks.

The facility is located in a rural area of Kansas, surrounded by agricultural land and sparse population. The primary environmental considerations for gas pipeline booster stations include potential leaks or ruptures that could affect soil and groundwater. The region's semi-arid climate and flat terrain influence pipeline routing and maintenance practices. Regulatory compliance under PHMSA ensures cathodic protection and regular inspections to mitigate corrosion risks.