New York commission approves construction of NYSEG gas compressor pilot project

The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) recently approved the construction of a $4 million New York State Electric and Gas Corporation (NYSEG) natural gas compressor pilot project.

The PSC also approved the issuance of a request for new proposals to offset the need for a gas pipeline initially proposed to be built in Tompkins County.

“Our decision today is based, in part, upon New York’s goals along with the significant public input we received from the local community keen to protect the environment and reduce the community’s greenhouse gas emissions,” Commission Chair John B. Rhodes said. “With the environment in mind, this pilot project is intended to boost the gas distribution system’s ability to maintain reliable supply without the need to build a new gas pipeline.”

NYSEG has recently seen significant growth in natural gas usage in its Ithaca Division. During peak day condition, the north end of the distribution system serving the Ithaca area cannot maintain minimum acceptable pressures.

The company has planned a 7.4-mile pipeline project known as the Lansing/Freeville reinforcement pipeline to support load growth and correct pressure drops.

However, after talks with stakeholders in the affected area and Commission staff, NYSEG proposed the pilot project and request for proposals.

NYSEG will now install four electrically powered compressors in strategic locations on its gas distribution system to increase system pressures in stages during peak demand times. This approach to addressing gas distribution system pressure drops has not previously been tested in New York State.

The company expects the project to be operational in time for the majority of the 2018/2019 winter heating season.

According to the company, the compressor project pilot only addresses its system’s low-pressure issues and does not eliminate the need for the current company-imposed moratorium on new gas connections in certain areas of Tompkins County. NYSEG plans to explore proposals to address pending demands on gas service in the area, as well as pressure and reliability issues.