FERC gives approval for Transco Pipeline’s northeast extension
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) authorized the expansion of the existing Transco natural gas pipeline to serve New York markets.
The expansion, called the Northeast Supply Enhancement project, will provide 400,000 dekatherms per day of additional natural gas supply to National Grid – the largest distributor of natural gas in the northeast.
“Natural gas is a critical component of the mix of energy sources necessary to meet the region’s growing energy needs and to help meet its aggressive clean air goals,” Micheal Dunn, chief operating officer at Williams, the company that is developing the extension, said. “We appreciate the Commission’s thorough review of this important infrastructure enhancement project, which will help ultimately advance New York City toward meeting the statewide carbon emissions goals outlined in the New York State Energy Plan.”
The Northeast Supply Enhancement project will expand the Transco pipeline to Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York primarily by placing new pipe alongside of existing pipe parallel to the existing right of way.
“NESE will provide access to critical supply to serve our customers in New York City and on Long Island, ensuring there is enough natural gas for them to heat their homes and run their businesses,” National Grid New York President John Bruckner said. “This project aligns with our 80×50 pathway to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports City and State clean energy goals while improving safety, reliability, resiliency and maintaining affordability and customer choice.”
FERC’s approval concludes a nearly three-year regulatory review process. It determined that the extension will serve the public interest and that the environmental impacts would be minimized with mitigation measures proposed by the company and FERC. Williams anticipates starting construction in the fall of 2019.
Transco is the nation’s largest interstate natural gas pipeline system. The 10,000-mile pipeline network extends nearly 1,800 miles between South Texas and New York City.
