Bakken

U.S. natural gas futures rose as freezing conditions in North Dakota cut output, while ongoing pipeline constraints in the Permian Basin continue to trap supply and pressure regional markets.

U.S. natural gas production reached a record average of 118.5 billion cubic feet per day in 2025, driven largely by growth in the Permian, Appalachia and Haynesville regions, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

Hess Midstream has announced a $60 million share and unit repurchase, including equity purchases from Chevron and public shareholders, as part of its strategy to boost distributable cash flow and shareholder returns.

Tallgrass and Bridger Pipeline have launched a 35-day binding open season to secure shipper commitments for expanded crude oil capacity moving from the Bakken to the Seahorse Pipeline system.

North Dakota crude production is expected to remain steady this year with drilling activity holding near 26 rigs, even after winter-related shut-ins and recent tariff developments.

Phase I covers 136 miles of a planned 344-mile pipeline system announced last year.

Global natural gas liquids volumes are projected to rise through 2035, with North America maintaining the largest share as petrochemical demand and shale gas production support long-term growth.

The Final Environmental Impact Statement clears the last major regulatory step before the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers decides whether Dakota Access can continue operating beneath Lake Oahe — a decision that could end years of uncertainty for one of the nation’s most controversial oil pipelines.

North Dakota could soon deploy $150 million from its Legacy Fund into home-state infrastructure, with a proposed Bakken natural gas pipeline leading potential investments.

USA Compression will acquire J-W Power Company in an $860 million deal, expanding its compression fleet to 4.4 million horsepower and strengthening its footprint across key U.S. basins.

North Dakota’s Bakken Shale continues to produce more than 1 million barrels per day, but analysts say future growth hinges on technology advances, enhanced oil recovery, and stronger infrastructure investment.

Bridger Pipeline will acquire 210 miles of Caliber Midstream crude oil and natural gas assets in North Dakota’s Williston Basin, expanding its gathering footprint and boosting Bakken takeaway capacity. The deal is expected to close in early 2026.

WBI Energy is advancing its Bakken East pipeline, a $500 million project to transport natural gas from western North Dakota to the east for power generation and data center demand, with construction planned for 2028.

The North Dakota Industrial Commission has directed the Pipeline Authority to begin contract talks with WBI Energy Transmission to secure capacity for a new natural gas pipeline. The project is seen as critical to expanding takeaway capacity and supporting long-term oil and gas production.

North Dakota oil output is expected to rise in August as operators restore curtailed production following a recovery in U.S. crude prices. State regulators said output has been consistent with July levels, supported by stable rig activity and more frac crews.