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Kinder Morgan has proposed a 15-mile natural gas pipeline extension, the North Extension (NEX), from the Antioch area in Illinois to Kenosha County, Wisconsin, to support increasing power needs due to local developments. The $410 million project is expected to be operational by the end of 2028, pending regulatory approvals.

The pipeline will extend from an existing line in Lake County, with only two miles in Illinois. It includes a new compressor station and upgrades to existing facilities. The pipeline aims to provide up to 185,000 dekatherms of natural gas daily.

Local officials indicate that demand is driven by new power plants and data center developments, particularly supporting Microsoft’s projects in Racine County. Concerns regarding potential environmental impacts and safety have been raised by residents and environmental leaders, while Kinder Morgan assures compliance with safety regulations and monitoring systems.