Industry

Natural Gas and NGLs

In an industry as expansive as natural gas, there’s a lot to manage. Our natural gas expertise covers pipeline natural gas, LNG, compressed natural gas, and natural gas liquids so that the weight on your shoulders feels lighter than air.

We often apply our technical expertise to the construction and operation of production and processing facilities, and to establish the causes of major pipeline and processing incidents.

On the commercial side, we advise clients and provide expert testimony on the terms of natural gas contracts, and evaluate acquisitions and divestitures of natural gas and natural gas liquids gathering, processing, treating and transportation facilities.

Case Studies

Problems with Sulfur Removal Unit Causes a Stink

October 12, 2022

An abrupt natural gas plant shutdown due to a power outage caused major equipment damage, and a faulty repair followed. The failed repair required additional material replacement and repairs. Baker & O’Brien was retained to assess the circumstances of the initial equipment failure and evaluate the cause of damages during the repair. Our expert report was used during the mediation hearing, and the parties settled the claim.

Construction Dispute Arises Over Interpretation of "RAGAGEP"

July 1, 2015

Different interpretations of recognized and generally accepted good engineering practices (RAGAGEP) led to a dispute during construction of a gas plant. Baker & O'Brien consultants provided expert opinions on RAGAGEP, including issues of control room siting, safety system design, pressure relief systems, and material selection, among others, required for conformance with codes, standards, regulations, and laws.

How "Petroleum" is Defined Can Have Important Contractual Implications

July 1, 2013

The definition of "petroleum" was front and center in a lawsuit about compensation related to an oil and gas partnership agreement. Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) had been converted to derivative products, sold at world market prices; however, a consultant's override was based on sales revenues from downstream products. Expert opinions based on a working knowledge of petroleum production contracts, natural gas processing and LPG production, and other derivative products helped facilitate a settlement.