Infrastructure company WhiteWater and a consortium of energy joint venture partners reached a final investment decision on Monday to construct a major new natural gas pipeline system transporting supplies from the prolific Permian Basin to Katy, Texas.

The project, known as the Solitude Pipeline System, aims to address expanding natural gas transport needs driven by steady associated gas production growth across the Permian, the largest oil-producing region in the United States.

Demand for takeaway capacity has surged as producers seek reliable access to key industrial and export demand centers along the U.S. Gulf Coast.

The joint venture is backed by substantial, long-term firm transportation contracts with investment-grade shippers, according to company officials.

Development of the Solitude Pipeline System will proceed in two distinct phases. The initial phase is slated to come online in the second half of 2029, bringing an initial transport capacity of roughly 2.25 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) into service.

A planned second phase, scheduled for completion in 2030, will add an equivalent 2.25 Bcf/d of capacity.

Once fully operational, the system will feature a combined total capacity of approximately 4.5 Bcf/d.

Project organizers noted that the system's overall architectural design incorporates flexibility for further structural expansions to accommodate potential future increases in shipper demand.

WhiteWater serves as the primary operator, holding a 50% ownership stake in the joint venture.

Its energy partners include Devon Energy with a 25% stake, MPLX holding 10%, and both Diamondback Energy and Western Midstream Partners each maintaining a 7.5% equity interest.

Commercial operation remains subject to customary regulatory evaluations and routine closing approvals, with initial deliveries expected to commence by late 2029.