SpaceX seeks approval for a 32-mile natural gas pipeline to its Cape Canaveral launch sites
A SpaceX subsidiary has asked Florida regulators to approve a 16-inch gas line through Brevard County, saying trucks can't keep up with the liquefied natural gas its Starship launches need. A local utility objects.
Photo: NASA / Wikimedia Commons, public domain
SpaceX subsidiary Coastal Connect Services has asked the Florida Public Service Commission to approve a 32.4-mile, 16-inch natural gas pipeline running entirely inside Brevard County to SpaceX's operations at Cape Canaveral, Orlando Shine reported on October 11, citing Reuters.
The line would connect to the existing Florida Gas Transmission interstate system. SpaceX uses liquid methane to fuel Starship and says trucks cannot meet its demand, with a single launch able to require hundreds of truckloads of liquefied natural gas.
Florida City Gas has objected, arguing the project could hurt competition, ratepayers and its own investments near the spaceport. Commission staff recommended approval on October 6. The line is exempt from certification under Florida's Pipeline Siting Act because it is under 100 miles and within one county, but it still needs other permits. No cost has been reported.
SpaceX did not respond to Reuters' request for comment. The company has also sought approval for an eight-mile pipeline to its Starbase site in Texas, the report said.