Renewable Natural Gas Pipeline
The renewable energy industry is constantly growing and changing. The innovations are exciting, and sustainability projects involving biogas have the added benefit of tax credits for organizations.
With expertise in all aspects of renewable energy permitting, environmental review, planning, engineering, and construction management, Pinnacle Engineering helps clients navigate a complex regulatory landscape and successfully implement sustainability initiatives.
Engineering Challenge
A client approached Pinnacle Engineering regarding a natural gas pipeline project. The project scope included three anaerobic digesters to be constructed on dairies separated 16 linear miles from a centralized biogas upgrading site. As a trusted partner with experience in environmental review and permitting, pipeline design, and construction oversight, Pinnacle was asked to design the pipelines to connect the proposed facilities. The pipelines created a pathway for the biogas generated at each dairy to flow to a biogas upgrading site where the gas could be processed and injected into an existing natural gas pipeline.
Technology, Engineering, & Easements Landowner Negotiations
The project involved many challenges, from the initial planning of the pipeline route through installation and commissioning. During the early stages of planning and designing, Pinnacle used drones paired with high-resolution GPS equipment to gather topographic data. The drone imagery was also used to identify sensitive ecological areas along the proposed route. Assessments performed during pre-engineering and the design phase included a threatened and endangered species review, cultural surveys, and a natural resource review. Reviews were also conducted to identify the location of underground utilities that needed to be avoided during pipeline construction.
Regulatory permitting added a layer of complexity to the project, partially due to the proposed path running through private farmland. As part of our regulatory due diligence, Pinnacle’s engineers worked with landowners and the county to define the public and private right of way (ROW).
During construction, Pinnacle utilized drones to track the progression of construction and document crop damage within the negotiated pipeline easements and temporary workspace. Areas of crop damage were calculated based on the drone imagery. Pinnacle worked with the client’s legal team to ensure the farmers were compensated based on the actual crop damage in each field. Our onsite engineers developed relationships with local landowners to ensure their needs were met to avoid costly delays during construction. The team also represented the client during permitting reviews with the Iowa Utility Board.
Analysis & Results
Pinnacle Engineering’s due diligence at the start of the project and throughout construction ensured the critical pipeline infrastructure was installed in compliance with federal, state, and local regulatory requirements. Additionally, our permitting expertise and local relationships helped the client navigate difficult situations that could have stalled the project’s progress.
Our goal is to continue to build upon our reputation of delivering high-quality services, maintaining open and responsive communications, and providing cost-effective solutions that consistently meet our client’s needs.
Comprehensive Solutions for the Railroad Industry
With a strong presence in the renewable energy industry since its inception, we have the historical knowledge and forward-thinking solutions to help you successfully execute projects and meet your sustainability goals. As an extension of your team, we support your internal operations with services that address your needs for compliance, project planning and permitting, construction, and emergency responses.
Pinnacle’s approach is not like most consultants; they work with our company’s best interests in mind and propose cost and time-effective remedies over remedies that are more financially beneficial to themselves. This has also built a tremendous level of trust that makes working together that much easier.
Environmental Engineer - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is very responsive to requests. They have not missed a deadline on any service thus far. They seem willing to go the extra mile when asked for input on potential projects.
Environmental Manager - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is local and able to respond quickly. In addition to being a subject matter experts, they can take the lead with little input needed from me to do so. Pinnacle is professional, knowledgeable, and customer service oriented. They are dependable and are respected and known within the local regulatory world.
Environmental Response Manager - Oil & Gas Client
Pinnacle is key to our company’s operations in my area of responsibility. Honestly, there is not another professional contractor that works any harder for us than the staff at Pinnacle Eng. If they can’t do it in-house, they know someone that can. They are “Problem Solvers” at the highest level.
Manager, Midwest Operations - Oil & Gas Client
I worked closely with Pinnacle at a previous role and then incorporated their services when I moved companies. I am a huge fan of the company. They are down to earth and incredible to work with. Their portfolio is extensive and the staff they have are all amazing to work with. I am grateful to partner with them in each of my roles.
Environmental Manager - Aerospace Manufacturing
I work with Pinnacle daily over the last few years. The top impression is that they deliver. They follow through and do what they say they are going to do. They are professional and keep us out of trouble.
VP of Engineering & Construction - Renewable Energy Client
Pinnacle is always there for us. Their broad range of expertise from environmental response to environmental permitting to their vast subcontractor network makes them an invaluable resource to our organization. I call them for everything from routine projects to largescale rail-based incidents. I’m thankful to have them as a partner.
Manager of Environmental Remediation - Class I Railroad
Environmental Engineering Solutions for a Better Tomorrow
At Pinnacle Engineering, we understand the importance of collaboration and being responsible stewards of the environment. We act as partners, working closely with you to understand your project, identify potential challenges, and help you determine the best path forward.