Florida Public Service Commission approves two new pipeline projects

The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) recently approved two projects for Peninsula Pipeline Company, a subsidiary of Chesapeake Utilities Corporation

The projects include the construction of new natural gas pipelines in West Palm Beach and in Escambia County as well as two transfer stations in Escambia County.

“Providing natural gas service alternatives to Escambia County boosts economic and job growth in the important Pensacola area market,” PSC Chairman Art Graham said. “Peninsula’s construction and ownership of a new pipeline in West Palm Beach protects Florida Public Utilities Company’s (FPUC) customers, who benefit from the service but are sheltered from project costs and risks.”

Peninsula will construct the pipeline and two transfer stations in Escambia County under a transportation service agreement with Central Florida Gas (CFG), also a subsidiary of Chesapeake Utilities.

The new distribution system will provide gas service to an industrial customer and to Pensacola Energy, a municipal natural gas utility. The plans also include serving additional customers. The project is expected to be completed in late 2018.

Peninsula will construct and own the Belvedere Pipeline, which will interconnect with the interstate Florida Gas Transmission line in the West Palm Beach area, under an agreement with FPUC. The project will help meet growing service demand in the area.

In 2007, Peninsula received PSC approval of an intrastate gas pipeline tariff that allows it to construct and operate intrastate pipeline facilities and to actively pursue agreements with natural gas customers. The company provides transportation service only and does not engage in the sale of gas.