FR 2021-04026

Federal regulatory processes can often seem abstract, but they play a critical role in shaping industries and affecting daily life. The document in question is a notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding upcoming tariff filings related to natural gas pipelines. Specifically, two companies—National Fuel Gas Supply Corporation and Empire Pipeline, Inc.—have submitted filings involving rate adjustments and refunds. The effective date for these new rates is April 1, 2021, and public comments on these filings must be submitted by March 3, 2021.

General Summary

This notice primarily serves to inform stakeholders and the public of the new tariff filings by the two companies. It provides basic details on these filings, such as docket numbers, the nature of the submissions, and the timeline for the public to engage with the process either through comments or interventions. The notice emphasizes the importance of adherence to specific regulatory procedures for those who wish to formally intervene or protest.

Significant Issues or Concerns

1. Understanding Regulations: The mention of Rules 211 and 214 suggests formal procedures for intervening or protesting in the proceedings. Unfortunately, the notice doesn't explain these regulations. This omission may limit accessibility for individuals who are not familiar with FERC's comprehensive regulatory framework, as they might need guidance to participate effectively.

2. Accessibility of Links: The document provides links for further information, but these are not clickable in a printed or plain-text format. This might pose a challenge for individuals who lack the digital skillset or resources to navigate online databases like the FERC's eLibrary system.

3. Technical Jargon: The document references specific sections of the General Terms and Conditions (GT&C) of the tariffs, such as "Section 41" or "23.6," but does not offer explanations for what these terms mean. This could be confusing for laypeople or smaller industry stakeholders not intimately familiar with the company's tariff language.

4. Lack of Context for Filings: The term 'Fuel Tracker' referenced in the filings might benefit from further context. The public might not be aware of what 'Fuel Tracker' entails and how it affects natural gas pricing and availability, thereby diminishing their capacity to understand the broader consequences.

5. Deadline for Comments: The deadline for comments is specific and relatively close to the document's release date. This could inadvertently lead to missed opportunities for public feedback, particularly if individuals or small stakeholders are not consistently following such updates.

Impact on the Public

Broadly speaking, the public and particularly those in communities served by these pipelines may see changes in their energy bills due to the proposed tariff adjustments. These filings directly influence how costs are distributed across various parties in the energy supply chain, potentially affecting pricing down to consumer utility bills. Awareness and understanding of these changes are crucial for informed public participation.

Stakeholder Implications

Positive Impacts:

For the companies involved, this regulatory process establishes a structured means to adjust rates in response to changing operational expenses or market conditions, which could ensure more predictable financial planning.

Negative Impacts:

For consumers and smaller market participants, there may be concerns over potential increases in energy costs. The procedural complexity can also act as a barrier to engagement for those who might have legitimate concerns or contributions to the dialogue on these filings.

In conclusion, while these types of regulatory filings are routine, they carry significant implications. They are indicative of the interplay between regulatory frameworks and industry dynamics that ultimately affect public and stakeholder interests. An increased effort in demystifying these processes and extending accessibility could enhance public participation and understanding.