FR 2021-03370

Florida Gas Transmission Company, LLC has submitted an application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) that seeks approval to construct two pipeline extensions and upgrade compressor stations in Florida. This project, referred to as the Big Bend Project, is intended to enhance natural gas transport services to a power plant in Hillsborough County. The total estimated cost for the project is approximately $37.5 million.

General Summary

The application was filed as part of regulatory requirements under the Natural Gas Act and aims for an upgrade that will support additional gas capacity. Florida Gas Transmission Company intends to construct two mainline loop extensions and relocate associated stations, as well as increase horsepower at certain compressor stations. This infrastructure project is projected to generate new firm transportation services, promising a consistent supply of natural gas.

Significant Issues and Concerns

There are multiple issues and concerns to be noted with respect to this document. Firstly, the total cost of the project lacks a detailed financial breakdown. This absence of transparency can raise questions about potential mismanagement or wastage of funds. Furthermore, terms such as "rolled-in rate treatment" are used without providing a clear explanation, leaving stakeholders who are unfamiliar with utility pricing structures potentially confused.

The technical terminology and numerous references to regulatory guidelines can be quite overwhelming for those not well-versed in this area, suggesting that the document is written in a manner that might not be easily accessible to the general public. Additionally, the procedural aspects of filing a protest or motion to intervene, including multiple links and complex instructions, could be viewed as an unnecessary burden, particularly for individuals not accustomed to FERC's processes.

Public and Stakeholder Impact

The project could have broad ramifications for the public and various stakeholders. By increasing natural gas transportation capacity, consumers and businesses reliant on stable energy supplies may benefit from improved services. However, environmental concerns arise as the document mentions the need for a water quality certificate but does not delve into any potential environmental impacts or safeguard measures, which would be a pertinent consideration for environmental advocates.

For stakeholders closely involved or affected by the regulatory process, such as landowners or residents near the proposed project areas, the application allows for filing protests or motions to officially intervene. This grants them a voice in the proceedings, although the complex navigation required may deter participation. Intervenors gain the right to further appeal decisions or request rehearing, although the document does not thoroughly explain how these processes play out, leaving some ambiguity.

The contact details for the project liaison could indicate a streamlined communication process, but it might also suggest limited channels for raising queries. Thus, while the document does provide avenues for public engagement and input, there are several areas where transparency and accessibility could be improved to better serve all stakeholders involved.

In the Federal Register document regarding the Florida Gas Transmission Company's application, the total estimated cost of the proposed project is highlighted. Florida Gas estimates the total cost of the project to be $37,527,398. However, the document does not provide a detailed breakdown of how this total amount is allocated among various components of the project. This lack of transparency in financial reporting could lead to concerns regarding potential wasteful spending or misallocation of funds. Stakeholders may find it challenging to assess the justification of costs without a clear understanding of where and how the funds will be used.

Another financial reference in the document is the mention of a "rolled-in rate treatment." This term, often used in utility pricing, suggests that the costs of the new project will be incorporated into the existing rate base, shared among all customers rather than being charged specifically to the new project. However, the document does not elaborate on what this means for the consumers or the implications for the overall pricing structure. This could be particularly unclear for stakeholders who are unfamiliar with utility rate-setting and may lead to questions about the impact on consumer pricing or service rates.

The issues identified in the document center around a lack of clarity and transparency regarding financial aspects. By not detailing the distribution of the project's cost and not explaining key financial terms, the document could leave stakeholders, including consumers and regulatory bodies, without a clear comprehension of how the financial resources are planned to be utilized. These gaps in information may lead to calls for more rigorous financial disclosure and transparency from the parties involved in the proposal.