Tennessee Gas Transmission Co Compressor Station 523 - Chauvin, Louisiana Gas Pipeline Infrastructure

Tennessee Gas Transmission Co Compressor Station 523 is located at 8181 Redfish St in Chauvin, Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana. This facility is part of the extensive Tennessee Gas Pipeline system, one of the largest natural gas pipeline networks in the United States, and plays a critical role in moving natural gas from producing regions to markets across the country. The station operates under the regulatory oversight of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with 49 CFR Part 192, which governs gas pipeline safety. The facility's NAICS codes (211130 for natural gas extraction and 486210 for pipeline transportation) indicate its dual role in gas processing and transmission. Compressor stations like this one are essential for maintaining pressure and flow in long-distance pipelines, typically spaced every 50 to 100 miles. Located in the coastal wetlands of southern Louisiana, the station is situated in an area with significant ecological value, including marshes and waterways. The facility's proximity to the Gulf Coast and populated areas necessitates robust safety and environmental management practices to prevent leaks and protect sensitive habitats. Its operation supports regional energy supply and local economic activity.

The compressor station is located in the Mississippi River Delta region, a vast wetland ecosystem that provides critical habitat for migratory birds and aquatic species. The area is prone to subsidence and coastal erosion, which can affect pipeline integrity. The facility's operation involves natural gas compression, which carries risks of methane emissions and potential leaks. Proximity to waterways requires careful monitoring to prevent contamination. Cathodic protection systems are typically employed to mitigate corrosion, a key risk factor for aging pipeline infrastructure in this humid, saline environment.