11/18/24 - 107 New Stories - REAL Environmental & Conservation Leadership In PA: http://tinyurl.com/3zb7jppr
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House GOP Policy Committee Hears Comments On Natural Gas Pipeline Safety
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The House Republican Policy Committee this week held a hearing on the issue of natural gas pipeline safety related to Marcellus Shale development. Public Utility Commission Commissioner Robert Pawelson said his agency has jurisdiction over certain natural gas pipelines owned by public utilities involved in development of Marcellus Shale, but only the pipeline safety portion, not environmental or water concerns.
Paul Metro, Chief Engineer For Gas Safety at the PUC, provided a detailed overview of the role and responsibilities of the PUC noting the agency has 8 pipeline safety inspectors across the state. He said Pennsylvania is the only state without the full authority to inspect pipelines from the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.
Metro recommended the PUC be given full authority to inspect pipelines and collector lines used for natural gas development.
Ted Wurfel, Marcellus Shale Coalition, said the industry supports giving the PUC more authority to regulate pipelines through PHMSA, but not the natural gas gathering lines. He also highlighted problems with the air and wetlands permitting process administered by the Department of Environmental Protection.
Greg Brazaitis, Energy Transfers Partners, highlighted his company's experience in developing natural gas gathering pipelines throughout the country.
Rep. Stan Saylor (R-York) serves as Chair of the Committee.
NewsClip: PUC Needs Authority Over Gas Pipelines
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