U.S. regulator raises concerns about weights on energy pipelines

Reuters: CALGARY, Alberta/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A U.S. regulator’s preliminary investigation into the biggest oil pipeline spill this year has raised a red flag that could trigger an extensive and costly inspection of tens of thousands of miles of underground energy lines.

The 5,000-barrel leak on TransCanada Corp’s (TRP.TO) Keystone pipeline on Nov. 16 in South Dakota might have stemmed from damage caused by a weight put in place when it was built in 2008, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration said in a report published on Tuesday.

Weights are used to prevent pipelines from moving and reduce the risk of damage or ruptures when water tables rise.

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