FERC grants Columbia more time for pipe project facing easement hurdles

摘要

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission granted Columbia Gas Transmission a three-year extension on authorization to build the Eastern Panhandle Expansion Project in Maryland, setting aside objections from individuals and environmental groups. The 3.4-mile, 47,500 Dt/d interstate natural gas pipeline project, which will deliver gas supplies from Pennsylvania to West Virginia utility Mountaineer Gas in Morgan County, has faced strong opposition despite its small scale. Faced with a Maryland denial and adverse court rulings related to a state easement needed to cross the Western Maryland Rail Trail in Maryland, Columbia in early July asked FERC for a three-year extension until July 19, 2023, of its authorization to build the project.