FR 2025-02587

Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC has submitted a request to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) seeking approval to abandon a gas well and associated facilities in Holmes County, Ohio. The well in question is identified as underperforming, contributing minimally to the overall output of the Holmes Storage Field. This request must be viewed in the context of regulatory compliance under the Natural Gas Act, indicating an adherence to various standards designed to ensure performance and safety in the energy sector.

General Summary

The notice outlines Columbia Gas Transmission's intention to cease operations at a particular site deemed not valuable for continued use. The document explains how interested parties can participate in the review process, which includes filing protests or motions to intervene in the proceeding. The deadline for public participation in commenting or contesting the project is set for April 8, 2025. Provided as well are the means through which individuals can seek assistance from FERC's Office of Public Participation (OPP) should they need guidance.

Significant Issues and Concerns

Several potential issues arise from this document:

1. Cost Justification: The estimated cost of $818,000 for the project's abandonment brings up questions about financial accountability, especially when the well is acknowledged as providing minimal value. A more detailed breakdown or justification of these expenses may help stakeholders better understand and assess these costs.

2. Complex Regulations: The procedural instructions incorporate numerous references to legal sections that are likely unfamiliar to those outside the regulatory or legal professions. This complexity could deter meaningful participation from the general public, making it challenging for interested individuals to engage with the process fully.

3. Public Participation Process: The comprehensive guidelines for filing protests and interventions might be daunting for the layperson. To encourage broader participation, simplification of these procedures into more accessible language could be beneficial.

4. Contact Information Overload: A wide range of contact numbers and email addresses have been provided for support, which, while comprehensive, may confuse on how to specifically direct inquiries or requests for assistance.

Impact on the Public

Broadly, the document signifies an opportunity and responsibility for public involvement in energy infrastructure decisions. By taking part in the review process through protests or comments, individuals can influence regulatory decisions that may affect local communities, environments, and potentially consumer costs.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders, such as landowners in the region, community organizations, and environmental advocates, may be particularly impacted by the proposed abandonment. Positive effects may include the cessation of potentially non-beneficial industrial activity, thus possibly reducing environmental impacts. On the negative side, local economic considerations, including job implications and land utility changes, could result from the project's cessation. These stakeholders must weigh the economic benefits against potential environmental and community impacts when deciding on their stance regarding this abandonment.

The involvement of these stakeholders in the process is crucial, and FERC's provision of support resources aims to facilitate informed and effective participation. Nonetheless, ensuring that the public comprehensively understands their rights and the process remains a challenge that warrants attention.

In the Federal Register notice regarding Columbia Gas Transmission, LLC's proposal, there is a specific financial reference indicating the estimated cost for the project is $818,000. This cost is associated with the abandonment of an underperforming injection/withdrawal well, along with its connecting pipeline and associated facilities, at the Holmes Storage Field in Holmes County, Ohio. The project, referred to as the 2025 Holmes Well 7514 Abandonment Project, involves the well that Columbia has determined does not significantly contribute to the storage field's performance or meet current integrity standards.

Financial Summary:

The document highlights the $818,000 as the budget estimate for carrying out the well abandonment and associated tasks. This substantial financial commitment is solely for the purpose of ceasing operations relating to an asset that is no longer viewed as valuable or necessary for Columbia Gas's ongoing operations.

Relation to Issues:

1. Justification and Reasonableness: The document does note that the well is underperforming and provides minimal deliverability value, which might cause one to question the necessity of such a significant expenditure for its abandonment. This energy infrastructure project requires this monetary allocation primarily for compliance with regulatory standards and to ensure safety and integrity as per the PHMSA Storage Final Rule.

2. Complexity of Regulatory References: While the reference to the cost is clear, it exists within a framework of complex regulatory guidelines (such as sections of the CFR), which might not be easily understood by the general public. Understanding why this amount is justified could require further explanation or supporting disclosures to help the public grasp the necessity and breakdown of the expenses.

3. Public Participation and Opinion: Given the significant expense, the document encourages public intervention, but the process to do so can seem daunting and might limit participation effectively. Transparency in how the funds will be used and the project's necessity could facilitate more informed comments or protests.

The financial commitment outlined reflects the legal and procedural responsibilities associated with the abandonment of gas infrastructure, highlighting the intricate balance between regulatory compliance and fiscal prudence. Further insights into the breakdown of this project cost could aid in assessing whether the expense is justified, fostering a more comprehensive understanding among the public and involved stakeholders.