Regulatory Process
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, or FERC, is the agency that regulates the interstate transmission of natural gas, oil, and electricity. It also licenses, inspects and oversees environmental matters for hydroelectric projects and major electricity policy initiatives.
FERC implements laws passed by Congress, which give the Commission its legal authority to do business under Title 18 – Conservation of Power and Water Resources, Parts 1 to 399 – of the Federal Code of Regulations (CFR).
FERC’s oversight role of natural gas
FERC’s natural gas responsibilities include regulation of:
- Pipeline, storage and liquefied natural gas facility construction
- Interstate transportation of natural gas
- Facility abandonment
FERC also:
- Oversees the construction and operation of pipeline facilities at United States points of entry for the import or export of natural gas
- Issues certificates of public convenience and necessity to prospective companies providing energy services or constructing and operating interstate pipelines and storage facilities
- Establishes rates for services
Environmental protection procedures
With respect to natural gas projects, FERC safeguards the environment by:
- Disclosing, analyzing and minimizing impacts where it is feasible and reasonable to do so;
- Encouraging applicants to communicate with relevant federal and state natural resources agencies, Native American nations and state water quality agencies prior to submitting an application;
- Ensuring that all applicants perform the necessary studies to make an informed decision on the project;
- Issuing environmental assessments impact statement for comment on most projects;
- Requiring steps to reduce environmental impacts with any certificate issued;
- Visiting proposed project areas to determine the range of environmental issues requiring analysis and holding scoping meetings as appropriate.
Additional information for citizens
- FERC website http://www.ferc.gov/for-citizens/citizen-guides.asp
- Blanket Certificate Program: Notice to Landowners Download Brochure (Published June 2007)
- An Interstate Natural Gas Facility on My Land? Download Guide (Re-published August 2009)
- High Natural Gas Prices: The Basics Download Report
Need a paper copy?
Contact Information
Office of External Affairs
Telephone: 202-502-8004
Toll-free: 1-866-208-3372
Fax: 202-208-2106
Email: Office of External Affairs
