Background:
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (“FERC”) has proposed substantial changes to its blanket certificate program which governs interstate natural gas facilities.
The proposed rule would significantly increase the size and scope of projects eligible for streamlined authorization while reducing project-specific review, public participation, and FERC oversight.
There are many concerning ramifications of the proposed revisions, including:
- The ability for substantially larger pipeline, compressor station, storage, and related infrastructure projects to proceed without the individualized review required by the Natural Gas Act, and necessary to ensure informed environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act.
- The possibility of project segmentation due to incentives for applicants to divide larger infrastructure programs into multiple blanket certificate projects.
- The facilitation of additional fossil fuel infrastructure associated with data center growth without the vital public convenience and necessity review.
- Disregard for climate impacts due to generalized project review that cannot meaningfully address the cumulative impacts of expanded fossil fuel infrastructure.
- Reduced opportunities for meaningful public involvement by increasing the number and scale of projects eligible for streamlined review. By expanding blanket certificate authority, the Commission would allow a greater number of projects to proceed without the preparation of project-specific environmental assessments or environmental impact statements, thereby limiting opportunities for public notice, comment, and engagement.
FERC MUST WITHDRAW THE PROPOSED RULE for the safety of our communities and environment.
Expanded, unregulated fossil fuel infrastructure is dangerous for the future of our air and water quality, climate safety, and access to clean and healthy environments.
Landowners, local governments, Tribal Nations, environmental organizations, and affected communities must be able to raise concerns regarding projects that may directly affect their property, natural resources, public health, and quality of life.
Sign on as an individual, or on behalf of an organization you represent, TODAY!
Read the full letter and sign on here: