FR 2020-29164

The recent notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, published in the Federal Register, outlines several filings related to natural gas pipeline rates and refund reports. The companies involved in these filings include the Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC, Columbia Gulf Transmission, LLC, Crossroads Pipeline Company, and ANR Pipeline Company. The filings cover various subjects such as rate schedule changes and the crediting of penalty revenues. Public comments on these matters are solicited with a deadline set for January 11, 2021.

General Overview

This document primarily serves to announce the receipt of filings concerning rate adjustments and financial credits from penalty revenues by key pipeline companies. Each filing is uniquely identified by a docket number, alongside the specific nature and filing date of each application. The timeline for public comments is clearly outlined to ensure interested parties participate in the review process.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Despite the seemingly straightforward nature of the notice, several concerns present themselves:

1. Technical Language: The document employs specialized legal and regulatory terminology, such as "§ 4(d) Rate Filing" and "penalty revenue crediting," which may be inaccessible to individuals lacking expertise in energy regulations. This may deter public engagement or understanding of the filings.

2. Lack of Detailed Explanation: The document references specific regulatory rules without providing explanations, potentially alienating individuals who are unfamiliar with these legal norms. A glossary or footnotes might aid comprehension but are absent here.

3. Omission of Consequences for Inaction: While the deadline for comments is stated, the document fails to mention the implications of not submitting comments within the given timeframe. Stakeholders may benefit from understanding potential outcomes, such as how it might affect their ability to influence the proceedings.

4. Complexity in Filing Procedures: Instructions to access filing requirements via external links may present barriers, as not everyone may find it straightforward or accessible to navigate these resources.

Impact on the Public

The public, especially consumers of natural gas, could be indirectly affected by the outcomes of these filings, which may alter the pricing or availability of services. Unfortunately, due to the technical nature and regulatory focus of the document, most general users might struggle to discern how these changes might affect them personally.

Impact on Stakeholders

For specific stakeholders, such as energy companies, industry professionals, and regulatory bodies, this notice is crucial. It lays the groundwork for potential changes in operational costs and compliance obligations. Gas companies could see their financial strategies directly impacted depending on how rate adjustments are enacted.

On the positive side, stakeholders such as consumer advocacy groups might use the comment period to engage and influence proceedings in favor of favorable consumer outcomes. Conversely, smaller companies or interest groups might be disadvantaged if they lack the resources to engage thoroughly with complex regulatory content and processes.

In conclusion, this notice serves as a substantial, albeit technical, communication of regulatory activities impacting natural gas pipeline rates. Accessibility issues suggest a gap between regulatory intent and public understanding, indicating a need for greater clarity and education to foster informed participation in regulatory processes.