The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities has handed down a ruling on an investigation into the ways the commonwealth can add natural gas infrastructure. The northeastern state has infamously struggled with its reliance on natural gas for heating and electrical generation during the winter months, as demand cannot keep up with its supply.
The DPU will allow electric distribution companies to have a hand in building new infrastructure through gas pipeline contractors. In the past, these parties have sought long-term agreements regarding the new capacity they help integrate, which has left infrastructure growth at a standstill.
However, as the DPU stipulates in its order, the electric companies petitioning for new natural gas infrastructure will still need to demonstrate that their proposals benefit the ratepayers who would help fund the expansion.
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