Con Edison strikes deal to add more natural gas capacity in Westchester County, NY
Con Edison reached an agreement this week with the owners of a natural gas pipeline to serve the company’s customers in Westchester County, N.Y., with additional natural gas capacity.
The additional natural gas capacity will result in the lifting of a moratorium on new gas hookups in the region.
Under the agreement, Tennessee Gas Pipeline would provide the increased natural gas capacity to Con Edison’s distribution system in Westchester County. This would be done by upgrading compression facilities on its system outside of New York State, which will enhance the capability of the existing pipelines to transport incremental natural gas supplies for Con Edison.
This incremental capacity could be placed in service by November 2023, pending approvals.
“This project offers a reasonable, sensible approach to allow an orderly transition to the renewable energy future we all desire,” Tim Cawley, president of Con Edison, said. “The solution provides the time needed to improve non-pipeline technology and make it widely available. The additional natural gas capacity will continue to support economic growth in our region while reducing reliance on heating oil and the need for locally delivered compressed and liquid natural gas.”
Con Edison had announced the moratorium in the area on March 16. Demand for natural gas in New York City and Westchester County has grown significantly in recent years due to conversions of heating systems from oil.
Con Edison delivers electricity, natural gas, and steam to 3.5 million customers in New York City and Westchester County.
