CIG Dusts Off Ruby Pipeline, Plans Extension to Sacramento, CA 
El Paso subsidiary Colorado Interstate Gas is dusting off its Ruby Pipeline project in light of the scramble to increase deliveries to the California market. The project, which originally was announced in 1998 to serve northern Nevada, will be extended to Reno, NV, and into California, the pipeline said in an open season announcement. 
"In response to increased demand for gas supply in northern Nevada and northern California markets, Colorado Interstate Gas Co. (CIG) is announcing an open season to evaluate constructing interstate gas transmission capacity from the Rockies to these markets," the announcement states. "Natural gas production from the Rocky Mountain supply basins is projected to increase dramatically over the next few years and the Ruby Pipeline Project (Ruby) will provide access to these supplies." 
CIG said it has been working with shippers interested in developing an 850-mile 30- and 36-inch diameter pipeline running from western Wyoming through Elko, NV, Reno, Yuba City, CA, and ending in Sacramento, CA. CIG also anticipates interconnecting in Northern California with Wild Goose Storage, which is currently holding its own open season to evaluate expanding its facility. Ruby will be capable of providing up to 750 MDth per day of incremental transportation capacity to these areas. It is anticipated to be in service in late 2003. 
Parties interested in obtaining transportation service to delivery points in northern Nevada and Northern California are invited to submit bids in this open season, which started on April 23 and will close on May 31. Questions concerning the open season should be directed to Craig Coombs at (719) 520-4387; Ed Miller (719) 520-4305; or Tom Dobson (719) 520-4606.