FR 2025-06433

In this document, WBI Energy Transmission, Inc. is seeking authorization from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to abandon several natural gas storage wells and associated pipelines in Montana. This decision is part of WBI Energy's efforts to mitigate risks associated with the integrity of these structures, aligning with federal safety guidelines. The cost for this project is estimated at $7.6 million, aimed at securing safety rather than maintaining these aging infrastructures.

Overview

WBI Energy's proposal involves discontinuing the use of six natural gas storage wells and over four miles of accompanying pipelines. This move is described as an effort to ensure the integrity and safety of the energy infrastructure in accordance with guidelines from the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.

The public is encouraged to engage in this process by submitting protests, comments, or motions to intervene by June 9, 2025. FERC has provided resources for how the public can get involved, offering electronic means to file their responses.

Significant Issues and Concerns

There are several potential issues related to the transparency and accessibility of the project details:

• Cost Breakdown Transparency: The estimated cost of $7.6 million is presented without a detailed breakdown. This lack of detailed financial accountability could lead to questions regarding the efficiency and transparency of the expenditure.

• Complex Regulatory Language: The document is laden with legalistic language and references to Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) sections. This could impede comprehension for individuals without a background in legal or regulatory matters, potentially reducing the likelihood of meaningful public input.

• Multiple Contact Points: The document provides numerous contacts for various types of assistance, which could lead to confusion among stakeholders about where to direct specific inquiries.

• Limited Public Response Time: The deadline for public comment and engagement is set relatively soon after the announcement, which could be perceived as inadequate time for a thorough review and response by the public.

• Stringent Late-Filing Rules: The requirements for late submissions are strict, possibly discouraging individuals or organizations unfamiliar with these procedures from participating or questioning project decisions after the deadline.

Public Impact

This abandonment project has broader implications for the local and general public. On the positive side, aligning obsolete infrastructure with safety regulations can prevent potential hazards. Ensuring safer facilities align with public safety priorities preserves environmental and community health.

However, the project can impact stakeholders differently. Nearby residents might feel vulnerable to changes without sufficient opportunity for input or clarity regarding future land use once these facilities are abandoned. Landowners, businesses, and local governments could have concerns about property value, tax revenue changes, and future site reclamation.

Impact on Stakeholders

• Local Communities: The direct impact of such infrastructure changes often concerns nearby communities, who might fear the unknown consequences of abandoned facilities or appreciate the increased safety measures.

• Environmental Advocates: The abandonment aligns with safety and environmental standards, potentially pleasing environmental groups emphasizing reduced risk and adherence to federal safety guidelines.

• Regulatory Participants: Stakeholders familiar with regulatory processes might see this as a standard proceeding, while those less familiar could struggle with understanding complex procedures or meeting stringent participation requirements.

In summary, while WBI Energy's commitment to safety is a positive step, more effort in communicating transparent financial details and simplifying public engagement could foster greater public understanding and involvement. This would ensure community concerns and interests are adequately addressed in the decision-making process.

The Federal Register document outlines a proposed project by WBI Energy Transmission, Inc. (WBI Energy) involving the abandonment of certain natural gas storage facilities. The financial aspect of this project is a significant point of focus.

Financial Overview

The document specifies an estimated cost of $7,600,000 for the project, which involves the abandonment of six natural gas storage wells and approximately 4.07 miles of associated storage pipeline and facilities. This project is positioned as a measure to limit integrity risks in compliance with safety regulations.

Analysis of Financial Transparency

One notable concern is the absence of a detailed breakdown of this $7,600,000 estimate. Without itemized costs, stakeholders, including the general public and interested organizations, may find it challenging to evaluate whether the project is financially justified or if resources are being allocated efficiently. The lack of transparency in financial justification can lead to perceptions of potential wasteful spending. Understanding how this amount will be spent is crucial for ensuring accountability, especially under public scrutiny.

Public Engagement and Financial Implications

The document offers pathways for public involvement, including submitting comments, motions to intervene, or protests. However, the complexity of the language used to describe these processes may deter meaningful engagement, potentially leaving financial decisions unchallenged or unexamined by those with vested interests or concerns about budget efficiency.

Furthermore, with the deadline for filing any public responses set for June 9, 2025, there is limited time for the public to scrutinize the financial implications thoroughly. The expedited timeline might hinder a comprehensive review of financial allocations and requests for clarification or adjustments.

In summary, while the document provides an overview of the project's financial expenditure, it lacks transparency regarding the detailed use of funds. This, coupled with the potentially discouraging complexity of participation processes, may limit effective public oversight and feedback on the financial aspects of the project.