FR 2021-00687

The document in question is a notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), published in the Federal Register. It outlines recent filings related to natural gas pipeline rates and refunds submitted by two companies: Permian Highway Pipeline LLC and Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC. These filings involve petitions for rate approval and compliance with refund reports, respectively. This kind of regulatory communication is essential for ensuring transparency and accountability in the energy sector, but it often contains technical language and assumes familiarity with regulatory procedures, which can be challenging for the general public to navigate.

General Summary

The notice announces that FERC has received filings from two major players in the natural gas pipeline industry. Permian Highway Pipeline LLC has petitioned for rate approval effective from late 2020, and Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Company, LLC has submitted a refund report. Public comments or protests regarding these filings have deadlines, and formal intervention is required to become a party in these proceedings according to FERC rules.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One notable issue with the document is the lack of specific details regarding the nature or reasoning behind the proposed rate approvals and refund reports. This absence of detail makes it challenging for stakeholders or the general public to understand the necessity and potential impact of these filings. Additionally, the document relies on references to specific docket numbers and regulatory sections without providing context, which could be confusing for those unfamiliar with FERC procedures. The language is highly technical and assumes a level of regulatory knowledge that may exceed that of the general public.

Public Impact

For the general public, the most immediate concern might be how these filings could affect energy prices or services. Without clearer explanations, it is difficult to forecast the direct effects on consumers. If the rate approvals are implemented as proposed, they could potentially influence the cost of natural gas in the regions served by the applicants. However, this document does not provide sufficient information to draw specific conclusions about such impacts.

Impact on Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders such as energy companies, regulatory agencies, and consumer advocacy groups might be more directly affected by these filings. For energy companies and pipeline operators, changes in rates could significantly impact their financial operations and strategic decisions. Regulatory agencies and consumer groups may need to scrutinize these filings more closely to ensure that any changes align with public interest and market fairness. Without transparent and comprehensive details, these stakeholders might face difficulties in assessing the implications and responding appropriately to the changes.

In conclusion, while this notice from FERC serves a critical function in regulatory communications, it highlights the challenges of making such information accessible and comprehensible to both the public and stakeholders. More context and explanation would benefit all parties involved, fostering an environment of trust and informed participation in the regulatory process.