FERC TACKLES LOOSE-END KANSAS AD VALOREM TAX REFUND ISSUES INVOLVING NORTHERN NATURAL

摘要

FERC on 3/17/11 suspended for the maximum period (through 8/18/11) a Natural Gas Act (NGA) section 4 filing by Northern Natural Gas Co. (RP11-1781) to recoup $1.4 million in Kansas ad valorem tax refunds from its customers. These refunds were received from Burlington Resources Oil & Gas Co. and flowed through to Northern's customers. The request for recoupment has not been shown to be just and reasonable, the Commission said, and requires further investigation. The order is subject to refund and the outcome of a technical conference and hearing, but FERC held the hearing in abeyance and directed settlement procedures. On March 23, Judge Philip Baten was appointed, and the first conference is scheduled for April 7.