Apr 5, 2021 IPAA briefs FERC on importance of finality in certificate orders
In comments submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) on April 5, IPAA strongly opposed FERC’s reopening of a certificate granted to Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC and Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline, LLC for the operation of the Weymouth Compressor Station (Docket No. CP16-9-012). At the February open meeting, FERC allowed for continued operation of the compressor station but established an expedited briefing schedule to further examine public safety concerns, seeking answers on the need for additional mitigation measures and the consequences if FERC were to stay or reverse its prior authorization order. IPAA noted that FERC already is reviewing its policy for certification of interstate natural gas pipelines, which is the appropriate forum for any prospective change. “The regulatory uncertainty created by the issuance of the Briefing Order can have chilling effects on the ability of pipeline companies to adapt existing facilities or construct new ones… The implications are compounded by the effects on gas-consuming utilities and generators as they make their decisions on how best to meet their delivery obligations.”
