Regulatory Process

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is charged by Congress with determining whether or not proposed interstate pipeline projects are in the public interest. The information below explains the FERC’s review process for the planned project, and how you can get involved in the process.

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FERC Pre-Filing

On Nov. 10, 2005, Williams requested the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) initiate an environmental review of the Potomac Expansion Project prior to the company’s certificate application. This process, known as pre-filing, is facilitated by the FERC to encourage involvement by citizens, government entities and other interested parties in the very early design stages of a proposed project.

During the pre-filing process, the FERC notifies citizens, government entities and other interested parties of the proposed project and requests comments. As part of the pre-filing process, representatives from the FERC participated in Williams' public workshops (PDF, 316 KB) that were held Jan. 24, 25 & 25, 2006.

FERC Filing

Williams filed a formal application with FERC on July 17, 2006, seeking permission to construct the new facilities associated with the proposed Potomac Expansion. The filing outlines the proposed project, as well as providing a description of the proposed facilities, customers, and environmental impacts. The FERC assigned the project docket number CP06-421.

Copies of the application can be viewed at the following public libraries:

All documents and correspondence submitted to or issued by the FERC regarding the Potomac project can be accessed by referencing the Docket Number on the FERC website located at http://elibrary.ferc.gov/idmws/search/fercgensearch.asp.

Environmental Assessment

On January 16, 2007, the FERC issued an Environmental Assessment (EA) using information included in Williams’ certificate application and information assembled by its own staff. The EA describes the proposed project and alternatives, in addition to identifying existing environmental conditions and the potential project impacts. The EA also indicates what mitigation measures, construction procedures, and routing should be included in the project to eliminate or reduce impacts. Click here to download a copy of the Potomac Environmental Assessment.

The 30-day comment period on the EA ends February 16, 2007.

Certificate of Public Need and Necessity

On April 12, 2007, the FERC issued an Order granting a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity. Comments received on the EA are addressed by FERC in this document. The certificate details the conditions of the approval, including the final route that FERC has authorized, and construction and mitigation measures that Williams must follow.

Comments to FERC

When providing comments to the FERC, you should reference Docket No. CP06-421. Comments may be filed via the Internet on the FERC’s website at http://www.ferc.gov. You may provide written comments to the FERC by sending them to:

Magalie R. Salas, Secretary
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
888 First St., N.E., Room 1A
Washington, DC  20426