Press Release

PUC Finalizes Enhanced Frost Patrol Measures for Increased Safety of Natural Gas Distribution Systems

Published on 12/22/2011

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today finalized enhanced frost patrol measures designed to improve the safety of the state’s natural gas distribution companies (NGDCs).

 “Today’s Order seeks to improve the safety of the Commonwealth’s natural gas distribution systems by adopting new leak detection survey practices, new requirements for distribution integrity and management plans, and more aggressive frost patrol requirements,” wrote Chairman Robert F. Powelson and Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer in a joint statement.

The Commission voted 5-0 to approve individual improvements for each company.

The Commission opted not to impose uniform standards for frost patrols on all gas utilities given the varying weather, geography and pipe materials across the state. The Commission noted that all of the NGDCs meet or exceed existing state and federal guidelines for leak survey requirements. However, each company will:

·         Adopt proposed enhancements outlined for its frost patrol program;

·         Establish protocols for reporting leaks found during the course of frost patrols; and

·         Maintain tracking of leaks discovered.

Frost patrols are pipe surveys that the natural gas utilities conduct during the winter months to assess the pipelines for problems due to the frost and thaw cycles associated with cold-weather conditions.

In response to an earlier Commission action, each of the NGDCs with annual intrastate operating revenues over $40 million filed comments with the Commission on increased frost patrol measures. The companies provided information on current frost patrol programs and proposals for enhancing those programs. The companies then met individually with PUC staff to evaluate the programs and proposals.

In the Nov. 10, 2011, Order and subsequent Secretarial Letter, the Commission also directed the filing of distribution integrity management plans (DIMP) with the Commission. Due to concerns about the release of confidential information, today’s order allows the DIMP plans to be submitted to the PUC on a voluntary basis where they will be treated as confidential. However, companies not submitting plans must maintain the DIMPs at their offices for PUC review.

The Commission’s November order also sought comments on proposed pipeline replacement and performance plans. Those issues will be addressed in future Orders by the Commission.

The Commission’s ongoing actions are in response to the changing scope of federal gas safety regulations, the continuing pipeline development resulting from Marcellus Shale and recent tragic incidents involving natural gas distribution companies.  All these factors highlight the need for the Commission to establish a new framework for natural gas and hazardous liquids safety.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Docket No. M-2011-2271982

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• Press Secretary
  717-787-5722