Energy Transfer: Accusations of Environmental Negligence
Dallas-based Energy Transfer, one of the largest midstream oil and gas companies in the United States, has recently found itself under scrutiny following a report from Greenpeace USA. The environmental organization has accused the company of a “years-long pattern of pollution and corporate abuse” that details numerous incidents across the country, from pipelines bursting to air quality issues.
The Greenpeace Report
Greenpeace released a substantial 50-page report cataloging instances of spills, explosions, and various forms of pollution associated with Energy Transfer’s operations. The report claims to detail a troubling history, indicating that the company has been involved in nearly 800 reported incidents since 2010. This includes spills of hazardous liquids amounting to what could fill almost six Olympic swimming pools.
The allegations are serious. Greenpeace’s findings suggest that one year of air pollution from Energy Transfer’s operations in Texas could be linked to an estimated 16 to 22 premature deaths, alongside hundreds of millions in health-related costs. Tim Donaghy, the research director at Greenpeace USA, highlighted how the system seems to favor polluters while penalizing those who attempt to raise awareness of the harm caused.
Energy Transfer’s Legal Battles
Earlier this year, Energy Transfer achieved a notable legal victory against Greenpeace. A North Dakota jury awarded the company $660 million, finding Greenpeace liable for defamation and other claims related to protests against the controversial Dakota Access Pipeline. This verdict underscores an ongoing tension between corporate interests and environmental activism, sparking debates over defamation laws and the rights of activists.
Energy Transfer’s Response
Energy Transfer has vigorously refuted the claims made in the Greenpeace report. In an email statement, the company dismissed the report as a rehash of publicly available information designed to create sensational headlines. “Energy Transfer is a leading energy infrastructure company that places the safety of its employees, the environment, and the communities in which we live and work as its highest priority,” they stated.
Major Incidents Highlighted
The Greenpeace report does not lack examples. Two significant incidents cited occurred within Texas:
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Houston Pipeline Explosion (September 2024): A pipeline carrying natural gas liquids exploded in a residential area after a vehicle struck a valve. The resulting fire lasted three days, damaging homes and forcing residents to shelter in place.
Residents watch a pipeline fire burning in Deer Park, Texas. (Yi-Chin Lee/Houston Chronicle via AP) -
Arlington Oil Spill (May 2025): In this incident, a 16-inch crude oil transmission line ruptured, spilling over 2,600 barrels of oil. The nearby Village Creek Water Treatment Plant was contaminated, impacting local wildlife and leading to the closure of a popular bird-watching site.
Entrance to the Village Creek Drying Beds, a popular spot for birdwatchers. (Elías Valverde II / Staff Photographer)
The Cost of Inaction
Energy Transfer’s operations have been subjected to scrutiny due not only to these incidents but also because of a worrying trend. With an average of a pipeline spill occurring every nine days, the company’s track record raises questions about its commitment to safety and environmental sustainability. Over the last three decades, Energy Transfer has faced fines exceeding $100 million for various environmental violations.
As the debate continues, Energy Transfer maintains its stance of prioritizing safety and environmental stewardship, despite the claims of Greenpeace and other critics. This ongoing conflict epitomizes the broader struggle between energy corporations and environmental advocacy, reflecting deep-seated societal divides over resource extraction and conservation.