Energy Transfer resumes Mariner East construction following waiver approval

The Department of Community and Economic Development approved Wednesday waiver requests submitted by Energy Transfer to resume critical construction at 17 sites, 15 of which are associated with the Mariner East Pipeline project.

On March 19, Gov. Tom Wolf ordered all “non-life-sustaining” businesses to suspend operations to help slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19). This included all state construction projects, though companies were allowed to file exemption waivers. The state said it has received more than 16,000 business requests so far.

Energy Transfer, parent company of Mariner East builder Sunoco, said that the waivers requested were for projects ensuring the continued safety integrity, and stabilization of the construction sites. The company stated that there are no waiver requests pending and all other construction sites will remain shut down.

“The safety of our employees, pipeline workers and the communities where we work and operate remains our top priority during this critical time,” Energy Transfer said in a statement regarding the approvals. “[Our] pipeline systems and facilities that are in service have been deemed life-sustaining activities and will continue to safely operate. We are also continuing maintenance work on these assets.”

Included in the approved waivers are a mix of partially completed horizontal directional drills, road bores and open excavation sites across Pennsylvania. The company said that it will continue to secure, stabilize and move equipment at the active sites under the enhanced safety measures Wolf implemented on March 19.

“[We] have updated our protocols to remain diligent in keeping our employees, contractors and community residents safe and healthy while working on our property and within our pipeline rights-of-way,” Energy Transfer said.