While the pre-filing process is not voluntary and is part of the Natural Gas Act, Pacific Connector entered the pre-filing process in January 2017. It is our opinion that by working with stakeholders as part of the pre-filing process, the application we file is more complete than if we were to file without the valuable information we gather during pre-filing. At the end of the day, our goal is to file an application that reflects the best possible route by minimizing environmental impacts and the pre-filing process is critical in helping us accomplish that objective.
Who decides if the pipeline project gets built? Interstate natural gas pipelines are regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Pipeline companies must obtain a federal Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity—in addition to various state and federal permits—before any pipeline facilities can be built. Learn more about FERC on their website.