ALBANY, New York — The state utility regulator has declared a proposed pipeline to bring more gas into New York City necessary for reliability of the downstate gas system, a key victory for the project’s backers.
The Public Service Commission endorsed the Northeast Supply Enhancement project, or NESE, at a meeting Thursday. The project still faces several hurdles, primarily securing state water quality permits.
Public Service Commission Chair Rory Christian said the regulator must consider the reliability and resilience of the gas system. He raised concerns about the risk of severe cold weather and a shortfall in gas supply resulting in a loss of service and subsequent major economic and public health risks.
“There’s no law requiring anyone using natural gas to stop, and the long-term plan must … ensure that New York’s residents can continue to have safe, adequate and reliable gas service,” Christian said.
