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PUC Approves Settlement In 2019 Philadelphia Gas Works Explosion That Killed 2, Displaced 60 Residents

On January 8, the Public Utility Commission approved a landmark settlement with Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), transforming the lessons of a tragic 2019 house explosion into a set of pioneering safety initiatives.

These measures include a first-of-its-kind program to provide residential methane detectors, a commitment to seek federal funding to modernize aging infrastructure, and enhanced collaboration with key stakeholders.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the revised settlement presented by the PUC’s independent Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E) and PGW.

The settlement resolves a complaint filed by I&E following the investigation of a December 2019 house explosion on South 8th Street in Philadelphia, which resulted in two fatalities and the evacuation of approximately 60 residents.

The incident destroyed or damaged multiple homes, with total property damage estimated at $1.4 million.

“Today’s settlement reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the citizens of Pennsylvania,” said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. “While we can never undo the tragic events of 2019, we can honor the victims by turning this incident into an opportunity for meaningful change. Launching a first-of-its-kind methane detector program and accelerating the replacement of aging infrastructure underscore our top priority of public safety.”

Key Safety Initiatives

-- Launch of Methane Detector Pilot Program: PGW will establish a pilot program to provide methane detectors and alarms to residential customers, dedicating $800,000 to this initiative. The program is scheduled to launch within nine months, offering a critical early-warning system for potential gas leaks.

-- Accelerating Infrastructure Modernization: PGW will actively pursue up to $125 million in federal grant funding to modernize its natural gas distribution system. Any grant funds secured will be used to accelerate the replacement of small-diameter cast iron mains—prioritizing the safety and reliability of Philadelphia’s natural gas infrastructure.

-- Strengthening Procedures for Underground Risk Management: PGW will enhance its “underground street troubles” process, supported by updated procedures and training. This will address scenarios where cast iron pipes may be exposed or their integrity compromised, including water or sewer line failures, washouts, floods, or indications of underground cavities.

-- Improving Coordination and Communication: PGW will bolster its collaboration with the Philadelphia Water Department, other city officials, and owners of underground facilities and excavators. These improvements include enhanced communication, training, and coordination aimed at preventing infrastructure damage and ensuring the long-term safety of PGW’s cast iron pipes.

“Maximizing investment in utility infrastructure as well as investing in the men and women in the trenches doing the backbreaking work of replacing underground utilities – including century-old cast iron gas and water pipes – is our best bet at getting as close to a zero-incident rate as possible,” noted PUC Vice Chair Kimberly Barrow, in her statement supporting the settlement.

Further, PUC Commissioner Kathryn L. Zerfuss, in a joint statement with Chairman DeFrank, underscored the significant resources being dedicated to safety measures aimed at preventing future catastrophes.

“This settlement represents a significant step forward for public safety,” Commissioner Zerfuss emphasized. “By exploring a comprehensive set of prevention measures, innovative detection tools for residents, and expedited infrastructure upgrades, we can better protect Philadelphia’s residents and businesses.”

Documents related to this case can be found at Docket No.: C-2022-3033834.

Click Here for the PUC announcement.

NewsClips:

-- WHYY: Philadelphia Gas Works To Offer Free Methane Detectors To All Customers As Part Of ‘Landmark’ Settlement Of 2019 Home Gas Explosion

-- Inquirer: PUC Settles Case With PGW Over Deadly 2019 Gas Explosion In South Philly

-- WHYY: Philly Neighborhood Residents Sue PGW, PECO, City And Neighbors Over Massive 2023 Gas Explosion That Leveled Homes

Resource Link:

-- ABC6: ‘Looks Like A Bomb Exploded’ South Philadelphia Explosion Leaves 2 Presumed Dead

PA Oil & Gas Industry Public Notice Dashboard

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