FR 2025-02059

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued a notice concerning filings related to natural gas pipeline rates and refund reports. Among the filings, the Kern River Gas Transmission Company has submitted a compliance report, designated as "2025 NAESB 4.0," scheduled to take effect on August 1, 2025. This document, published in the Federal Register, intends to inform stakeholders and the public about these proceedings and invites interested parties to participate.

General Overview

The notice primarily serves to announce receipt of various filings related to natural gas pipeline rates and report refunds. The mention of the compliance filing by Kern River Gas Transmission Company hints at regulatory updates that are anticipated to begin mid-2025. The document provides deadlines and avenues for public engagement, encouraging stakeholders to lodge any protests or interventions by February 10, 2025. It also highlights resources available for those wishing to participate in FERC's processes, notably through the Office of Public Participation.

Significant Issues and Concerns

The document contains several areas that might raise questions and concerns for readers:

1. Lack of Detail on Compliance Filing: The compliance filing titled "2025 NAESB 4.0" is introduced without any explanation of its contents or objectives. Without clarification, stakeholders, particularly those unfamiliar with these complexities, may struggle to understand or evaluate its impact.

2. Undefined Terminology: The acronym "NAESB" is left unexplained, which could present a barrier to non-experts attempting to engage with or comprehend the document's implications fully.

3. Missing Financial Information: The document does not provide financial specifics or discuss the potential economic effects of the filings. Such information could be crucial for stakeholders to discern any economic benefits or potential biases, such as wasteful funding allocations.

4. Public Engagement Clarity: While the notice emphasizes the call for public intervention and participation, it offers limited guidance on the particulars of these processes. Clear instructions and detailed explanations might better empower stakeholders to take necessary actions or lodge effective protests.

Impact on the Public

This notice potentially affects a wide audience, including energy consumers, local communities, and industry professionals. For the general public, the document signals possible changes in natural gas rates that could eventually impact utility bills and market stability. However, the lack of transparency regarding the compliance filing’s specifics may contribute to confusion or concern among consumers relying on natural gas.

Impacts on Specific Stakeholders

Positive Impact:

• Industry and Legal Professionals: These stakeholders might benefit from potential adjustments or clarifications in regulatory compliance practices. Firms specializing in energy law might find opportunities to assist clients with adapting to or challenging these developments.

Negative Impact:

• General Public and Community Groups: Without details on the compliance filing's intentions or expected outcomes, consumer protection groups and community leaders might be at a disadvantage, unable to prepare for or counter any adverse effects on energy access or affordability.

• Vulnerable Communities: The notice implies engagement opportunities through the Office of Public Participation but falls short of offering actionable guidance. These groups could face difficulties in making their voices heard, losing potential chances to influence proceedings that could affect their interests.

In summary, while the notice performs its role of alerting the public to regulatory activities and inviting participation, it lacks sufficient disclosure and guidance. This omission may hinder effective public engagement and stakeholder response, emphasizing the need for more transparent communication from regulatory bodies.