Crude Petroleum Pipelines Industry Profile

Companies in this industry transport crude oil via pipelines. Major US companies include Energy Transfer Partners, Genesis Energy, and Plains All American Pipeline (based in the US); as well as China National Petroleum Corporation (China). Enbridge, Pembina Pipeline Corporation, and TransCanada Energy (based in Canada); Saudi Aramco (Saudi Arabia); and Transneft (Russia).

Crude oil pipeline networks continue to expand worldwide. For example, China is investing in extensive pipeline improvements and expansions domestically. However, expansions in Canada have the largest impact on the US. As development of unconventional energy resources in Canada grows, pipeline infrastructure between the US and Canada is expected to grow. The controversial Keystone XL pipeline from Canada to the US Gulf Coast refineries is one example of potential expansion.

The US crude petroleum pipelines industry includes about 800 establishments (single-location companies and units of multi-location companies) with annual revenue of $11 billion.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Demand is driven by economic activity and population growth, which drive energy use. The profitability of pipeline transporters depends largely on the volume and efficiency of their operations. Companies that operate multiple pipeline networks may enjoy economies of scale in purchasing. The US industry is highly concentrated: the 20 largest companies account for 90% of revenue.

PRODUCTS, OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY

Crude oil transportation companies operate pipeline and storage networks acting as the bridge between oil producers and refiners. Referred to as the midstream process of the oil industry, the ...