The U.S. Already Has a Safe Network of Pipelines That Are An Integral Part of Our Energy System. Mark Perry

The map above (click to enlarge) shows the existing, extensive network of energy pipelines in the U.S. with the following code:green for oil, red for gas, and blue for products such as gasoline, propane and ethylene.

  

In a temporary victory for environmentalists, the Obama administration has delayed its decision on whether to approve the controversial Keystone XL oil pipeline until after the 2012 election, which further delays the creation of 20,000 jobs for this "shovel-ready" project.  Environmentalists claim that the Keystone XL pipeline's route across the Midwest "would endanger sensitive lands and drinking water supplies."

With all of the environmentalism NIMBYism/alarmism about the proposed Keystone XL oil pipeline, it might be a good time to point out that:  a) the United States already has a huge network of existing pipelines for oil, natural gas and gasoline illustrated in the map above, b) pipelines have been used successfully and safely in the U.S. for more than 100 years, and c) pipelines are an integral part of our domestic energy system.   In other words, we live safely with energy pipelines every day and the Keystone XL pipeline would simply become one new part of an existing and extensive pipeline network that makes a significant contribution to America's dependable and affordable energy.

From Mark Perry.