Bedminster, NJ-based NUI Corp. said Wednesday that it will launch a non-binding open season for expressions of interest in up to 7 Bcf of firm gas storage to be developed in the Richton Salt Dome storage facility in Perry County, MS. The company said the open season will run through 5:00 p.m. EDT on July 3.

NUI plans to create two storage caverns of 3.5 Bcf of working gas each, for a total of 7 Bcf, in the initial phase of development of the Richton storage field. In the initial phase, the company said the Richton facility will be capable of delivering up to 600 MMcf/d. The site has expansion capabilities of two more caverns for a total capacity of up to 14 Bcf of working gas.

“As a salt dome storage facility, Richton will offer quick-fill, quick-withdrawal capabilities,” the company said. NUI expects service to begin in mid-2004 for the initial phase.

NUI plans to build a 14-mile pipeline to connect Richton with Destin Pipeline Co., LLC, which will provide direct access to Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line, Tennessee Gas Pipeline, Southern Natural Gas, Florida Gas Transmission, Gulfstream and Gulf South Pipeline.

For more information about the open season, visit www.nui.com, beginning next Monday or contact Peter Gross or Russ Bourquein at (281) 854-2036.

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