Full Title: White Paper on State Pipeline Infrastructure Replacement Programs
Author(s): N/A
Publisher(s): United States Department of Transportation
Publication Date: December 1, 2011
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):
Public safety requires prompt action to repair, remediate, and replace high-risk gas pipeline infrastructure, including cast iron mains, certain vintages of plastic pipe and mechanical coupling installations, bare steel pipe without adequate corrosion control, and copper piping. Several recent gas pipeline accidents show the terrible consequences that can occur if such action is not taken.
Pipeline infrastructure replacement programs for gas distribution systems exist in nearly 30 States. Some State Public utility commissions have used their traditional ratemaking authority to approve these programs, the terms and conditions of which are established under a generally applicable statutory provision. Other State public utility commissions have specific authority to approve such programs. The terms, conditions, and cost recovery mechanisms of these programs vary by statute. Whether as part of the traditional ratemaking process or in a separate proceeding, PHMSA is encouraging the States to accelerate the remediation of high-risk gas pipeline infrastructure.