Press Release

Natural Gas Utilities, Suppliers and Experts Brief PUC on Reliability for Winter

Published on 11/8/2012

Filed under: Gas

HARRISBURG – The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) held its annual Winter Reliability Assessment Meeting today where presenters reported that natural gas companies across Pennsylvania are prepared for this winter.  

"This is a great opportunity to assess the utility capacities and supply as we head into a winter season for consumers, and making sure there is adequate supply and distribution into the system," said Vice Chairman John F. Coleman, Jr. in a video news release. 

The presenters discussed the various conditions that may affect supply, price and service reliability of natural gas this winter.

Terrance J. Fitzpatrick, president and CEO of the Energy Association of Pennsylvania, said that their members are members are well prepared to accommodate the conditions forecasted in their winter season planning design.

Ronald Bradley, vice president – gas for PECO Energy Co., discussed information on the company’s winter preparations, as well as its natural gas supply. 

Robert Krieger, vice president of operations for UGI Utilities Inc., noted that safety and reliability are core values at UGI, and that their system design is safe and prepared to meet customers’ needs, particularly in the winter months.

Spectra Energy Transmission LLC’s Robert G. Riga added that integrity and other maintenance projects are being completed and that his company is prepared to meet the demands of the season.

Joseph L. Hartz, vice president of supply and operations for UGI Energy Services Inc., said propane stocks for the central Atlantic and U.S. in general are in good shape to meet potential supply disruptions or demand increases this winter.

In his presentation, Bruce Ruhlin, managing director of gas control for NiSource Gas Transmission and Storage, noted that Marcellus Shale growth gives customers more supply options. 

Presentations can be viewed by selecting the links below:

 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.pa.gov.

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