Regulatory Process
Before we can modify any facilities, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) requires interstate pipeline operators like Williams to obtain a federal Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity, in addition to various state and local permits. Williams filed a formal application with the FERC in January 2013. The project was assigned docket number CP-13-36. This federal filing represented the culmination of years of planning and public outreach — a process that actually began with FERC’s formal pre-filing process in March 2009.
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, Williams hosted multiple public workshops in the areas potentially affected by the proposal. The workshops were designed to provide all interested parties an opportunity to meet project personnel, review maps, learn more about the regulatory process, ask questions and share feedback. Representatives from FERC participated in these meetings as well. All documents and correspondence submitted to or issued by the FERC regarding the project can be accessed by referencing the docket number (CP13-36) on the FERC website. If FERC determines there is a public need for the project and the construction and operation of the facilities do not result in significant adverse impacts to the environment, FERC will issue a certificate of public convenience and necessity authorizing the company to proceed with the project. A detailed analysis of all of the route alternatives, including the company’s preferred route, will be submitted to the FERC for consideration and ultimate approval. |
