Report: Gas Pipeline Builder Changed Plans Without Approval
(AP) — A state investigation found that the builder of a natural gas pipeline in Vermont deviated from approved construction plans without informing the state.
The Public Utility Commission report found that Vermont Gas made several changes to the approved construction plan for the 41-mile (66-kilometer) pipeline without informing the commission, Vermont Public Radio reported.
“Vermont Gas gave no advance notice of its plans nor did it seek approval of these changes before they occurred. This prevented any analysis of those changes by the Commission and denied the public an opportunity to comment on the changes,” hearing officer Michael Tousley wrote in the Jan. 29 order.
Construction on the pipeline that runs from Colchester to Middlebury was completed in 2017, but faced legal challenges even after gas started to flow to customers.
The state Public Service Department, which represents the public in utility issues, asked for the investigation back in 2018, the broadcaster reported.
“The pipeline is safe and was completed responsibly,” Beth Parent, a spokesperson for the company, told the broadcaster.
In its report, the commission said it will now consider whether to assess a penalty on the company for the unauthorized changes it made during the pipeline’s construction.
Related News
From Archive
- DeLa Express seeks FERC approval for Permian-to-Louisiana gas pipeline project
- Hudson Tunnel Project set to generate 95,000 jobs during construction phase, report says
- Charleston Water System settles huge lawsuit over sewer system damage caused by non-flushable wipes
- Boring machine 'Chessie' resumes drilling at Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel site after anchor incident
- Aegion continues western expansion with acquisition of underground utilities company Toncco
- Ditch Witch 1030
- 24th Annual Directional Drilling Survey
- Michigan lawmakers introduce bills to create septic codes throughout the state
- House passes Rep. Duarte's legislation to streamline water permitting processes in the Valley
- Court approves 3M settlement over ‘forever chemicals’ in public drinking water systems
Comments