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Senators express concern about Cook Inlet gas supplies, point to lawsuit and drilling activity
Summary
Senators said Cook Inlet gas supply is 'dire' when demand falls and winter cold starts, noting an existing lawsuit and efforts by private companies to drill new wells; lawmakers pointed to the need for additional drilling rigs and access.
Senators raised concern about Cook Inlet gas supply during the Senate press availability, noting a recent lawsuit that alleges operator actions could withhold gas needed in colder months.
Senator Giesel said the first‑week hearings focused on Cook Inlet and described the situation as "dire" despite recent unseasonably warm conditions. "Star is pointing out that when the weather gets cold, they're gonna need that gas. And to have that withheld by Hillcorp, that's what the lawsuit's about," Giesel said.
Nut graf: Lawmakers said they are watching litigation over gas storage and infrastructure in Cook Inlet and are encouraged by private efforts to drill more wells and secure use of a jackup rig, but they also noted the region needs additional rig access and exploration.
Giesel said HexFury secured use of the HillCorp‑owned jackup rig — the only one in Cook Inlet — to drill a well, and that the Kenai unit (described as underexplored) could yield additional gas if more rig access and drilling occur. "The more access to a jackup rig there could potentially turn up yet more gas in Cook Inlet," she said.
Senators said the litigation and production constraints underscore the need for infrastructure access and regulatory clarity as the state monitors supply risks for Southcentral communities.
Ending: Senators said they will continue oversight and hearings on Cook Inlet as lawsuits and drilling activity proceed, and will monitor implications for regional gas availability.
