FR 2025-01511

The document published in the Federal Register provides notice about several filings related to natural gas pipeline rates and refund reports that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has received. These filings involve multiple applicants, each focusing on different aspects of natural gas pipeline operations and regulations.

General Summary

The document outlines new submissions from three notable applicants. Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc. has filed a revised statement of operating conditions following an order by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PAPUC). Meanwhile, MMGJ Arkansas Upstream, LLC, and Razorback Production, LLC have jointly petitioned for a limited waiver of capacity release regulations. Lastly, Guardian Pipeline, L.L.C. has submitted a filing concerning negotiated rate agreements that took effect on January 15, 2025.

Significant Issues or Concerns

One of the key issues noted is the absence of specific details regarding the content or impact of the revised statement of operating conditions by Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania, Inc. This lack of clarity might lead to confusion among stakeholders who rely on precise information to understand the changes fully.

Similarly, the joint petition by MMGJ Arkansas Upstream, LLC, and Razorback Production, LLC does not fully explain the necessity or implications of the requested waiver. This absence of explanation may leave stakeholders uncertain about how this waiver will affect pipeline operations or regulatory compliance.

Moreover, the negotiated rate agreements filed by Guardian Pipeline, L.L.C. are not elaborated in detail, which might cause misunderstandings regarding their significance or impact on stakeholders.

Additionally, the comment periods provided for some filings, such as those by MMGJ Arkansas Upstream, LLC, and Guardian Pipeline, L.L.C., are quite close to the filed dates, potentially limiting the ability for thorough public scrutiny, preparation of interventions, or protests.

Impact on the Public

The document can have a broad impact on the public, particularly those involved in or affected by the natural gas industry. For general members of the public, the regulatory language and deadlines might be daunting, underscoring a need for more accessible explanations and involvement opportunities. The rapid development of such filings might also affect energy prices or availability, which in turn could impact consumer utility bills.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

For professionals and businesses in the natural gas sector, the document holds significant importance. The filings will likely directly affect pipeline operations, rates, and regulatory compliance. Although the document attempts to facilitate public involvement, the narrow comment windows and complex references to federal regulations (like ‘18 CFR 385.211, 385.214, or 385.206’) might disadvantage smaller entities or less resourced stakeholders who have less familiarity with these procedures.

Landowners, environmental groups, and communities of interest, such as environmental justice communities or Tribal members, may also find themselves impacted by these filings. The shifts prompted by revised operating conditions or negotiated rate agreements could alter the landscape of natural gas transportation in ways that either pose challenges, such as potential environmental concerns, or offer benefits like enhanced service efficiencies or stability.

In summary, while the notice serves a crucial role in maintaining transparency and inviting public engagement, it could be improved by providing more detailed information, extended review timelines, and clearer regulatory guidance. This would aid stakeholders in adequately assessing and responding to the proposed changes.