FERC announces review of process for evaluating natural gas pipeline proposals
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) announced last week that its policies for evaluating natural gas pipeline proposals will be reviewed in an effort to make the process more consistent and efficient.
FERC Chairman Kevin McIntyre said the commission would review its Policy Statement on Certification of New Interstate Natural Gas Pipeline Facilities, which was issued in 1999.
“I believe we in the government should constantly be examining our various processes and procedures to see if we can do anything better,” McIntyre said. “Much has changed in the energy world since 1999, and it is incumbent upon us to take another look at the way in which we assess the value and the viability of our pipeline applications.”
McIntyre committed to re-examining FERC’s work during his Senate confirmation hearings.
“I am approaching this topic with an open mind and want the staff and the commission to take a fresh look at all aspects of the issue,” McIntyre said.
The next steps and the scope and format of the review are currently being discussed. McIntyre said the process should be thorough, and FERC should listen to the views of stakeholders. The overall goal of the review is to ensure that all natural gas pipeline applications are processed accurately and efficiently.
