Williams’ gas pipelines are gaining new life under Trump’s energy agenda, but fierce opposition from environmentalists remains. https://t.co/ZjTUoPazz6 ...

Core Viewpoint - Kinder Morgan is experiencing significant growth driven by a projected 20% increase in U.S. gas demand by 2030, leading to new expansion opportunities and a $1.3 billion investment in expansion projects during the second quarter [1][5]. Expansion Projects - The company has approved several major expansion projects, including: - Trident Phase 2, increasing capacity from 1.5 Bcf/d to 2 Bcf/d with an estimated cost of $1.8 billion, expected completion in Q1 2027 [5]. - Texas Access Project, a $112 million expansion with a projected in-service date in Q4 2028 [5]. - KinderHawk Expansion, with over $500 million expected investment [5]. - NGPL joint venture expansions totaling $264 million, expected to enter service in 2028 [6]. Growth Backlog - Kinder Morgan's growth project backlog has increased to $9.3 billion through 2030, up from $8.1 billion at the end of the previous year and $3 billion at the end of 2023 [6]. Earnings Visibility - The majority of the projects are backed by long-term contracts and government-regulated rate structures, providing significant visibility into earnings growth over the coming years [7]. Future Growth Catalysts - Analysts predict that U.S. LNG export capacity will more than double by 2030, with Kinder Morgan's contracts to supply gas to LNG facilities increasing from 8 Bcf/d to 12 Bcf/d by 2028 [8]. - Rising power demand from AI data centers, reshoring of manufacturing, and electrification is driving the need for more gas-fired power plants, with half of Kinder Morgan's backlog supporting this demand [9]. Acquisition Strategy - The company has made strategic acquisitions, such as a $640 million purchase of a natural gas gathering and processing system in North Dakota, which enhances income and allows for capital reallocation [10]. Dividend Growth - Kinder Morgan is positioned to continue increasing its dividend, having achieved eight consecutive years of growth, supported by new projects entering commercial service [11].