By William Opalka
FERC last week released an environmental assessment of the Atlantic Bridge natural gas pipeline expansion project, finding “no significant impact” (CP16-9).
Spectra Energy has proposed expanding its Algonquin Gas Transmission and Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline systems’ capacity by 132,700 dekatherms/day to serve the New England and Canadian natural gas markets.
Six miles of existing pipeline in New York and Connecticut would be widened from 26 inches to 42 inches. A 7,700-horsepower compressor station would be built in Massachusetts, along with numerous infrastructure improvements.
The project has a proposed in-service date of November 2017. Public comment on the project is open until June 1.
While only a fraction of the size of other natural gas projects seeking to tap into abundant shale gas from Pennsylvania, the project has provoked opposition from climate change activists and landowners fearing encroachments on their properties. (See Hearing on Algonquin Pipeline Expansion Highlights Local, National Issues.)
The developers have commitments from New England gas distribution companies and manufacturers for 40% of the additional capacity, with the other 60% committed to commercial and industrial customers in the Canadian Maritime provinces. The developers say none of the gas is destined for the LNG export terminals proposed in Maine or the Maritimes, a major source of controversy for any infrastructure expansions in New England.
“The additional supply from Atlantic Bridge will help enhance the reliability of energy throughout the region and generate savings for homeowners, businesses and manufacturers,” according to Spectra.
FERC said its review did not find significant issues that rise to the level of requiring a more extensive environmental impact statement.