Williams, a major natural gas pipeline operator headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, already owns over 30,000 miles of pipeline. This acquisition would add Momentum's 4,000-mile network, which directly connects to 10 LNG facilities and 26 power plants, strengthening Williams' position in the Gulf Coast corridor.
The potential acquisition underscores the critical role of midstream infrastructure in supporting the booming U.S. LNG sector. As global demand for natural gas rises, pipeline operators like Williams are racing to secure routes that connect prolific supply basins to export terminals. Momentum's network, with direct links to 10 LNG facilities and 26 power plants, offers Williams a strategic advantage in the Gulf Coast region, where much of the new export capacity is being built. The Haynesville shale, one of the most productive gas fields in the country, is a key source for these exports, making the additional pipeline capacity particularly valuable.
The U.S. LNG boom has driven fierce competition for pipeline access to the Gulf Coast. With global natural gas demand rising, companies like Williams are investing heavily to secure capacity before new export terminals come online. The Haynesville shale, one of the most prolific gas fields, has become a focal point for producers seeking to supply these terminals.
Williams already operates a vast network of pipelines that move natural gas from major production areas to markets across the country. Adding Momentum's assets would deepen its presence in the Gulf Coast corridor, where dozens of new LNG export projects are planned or under construction. This region is expected to become a global hub for liquefied natural gas shipments, and having direct pipeline connections to export terminals is a significant competitive advantage.
The Deal
The buyer, Williams Companies, is a natural-gas pipeline operator based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Its stock closed at $77.92 on Friday in New York trading, up 0.5%. The company's market value was $95 billion at that price.
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The purchase price is approximately $5.5 billion.
Who Is Selling Momentum?
Momentum Midstream is owned by private equity firm EnCap Flatrock Midstream. According to the firm's website, EnCap Flatrock was formed in 2008 through a partnership between EnCap Investments and Flatrock Energy Advisors.
The owners are in advanced talks to sell, but have not made a final decision. The people familiar with the matter requested anonymity because the information is private. EnCap Flatrock could still opt to hold onto Momentum instead of selling.
What's Next
According to the sources, a public announcement of the deal may come within approximately seven days.
If the deal goes through, Williams will add Momentum's 4,000 miles of pipeline and gain direct connections to 10 LNG facilities and 26 power plants.
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