Rio Puerco Looping Project

New Mexico Gas Company installed 15 miles of 24-inch pipeline to connect the Albuquerque metro area distribution system to the interstate transmission pipelines which cross the state. The new line runs parallel to our existing 16-inch pipeline, which adds natural gas transmission capacity to our system. 

Before operation, we performed pressure testing where nearly 1 million gallons of water was pumped into the new line to confirm its integrity. Disposing of this much water can be a challenge but our teams developed an earthen stock tank to contain the water. The pond provided a solution to the disposal of test water and a long-term benefit to area ranchers by providing water for cattle.   

The project boosted system transmission capacity into the central Rio Grande corridor by more than 60 percent. By improving infrastructure in the Albuquerque area, we are better positioned to support future industrial or manufacturing facilities.

And by establishing a loop, New Mexico Gas Company now has greater flexibility in delivering natural gas to residential and commercial customers in the Albuquerque-Santa Fe corridor and across all of northern New Mexico, boosting system reliability.

As we continue to provide safe, reliable service to our customers, this additional capacity provides the opportunity for future system growth and further reinforces our system capabilities.