Natural Gas Regulation

Interstate and Intrastate Natural Gas Pipeline Matters

Our attorneys have practiced in the natural gas industry since BGM’s inception in 1976. We draft relevant documents, negotiate on behalf of our clients and participate in FERC proceedings involving interstate and intrastate gas pipeline tariff, contract, ratemaking and service matters. We have represented clients frequently in connection with FERC-regulated interstate pipelines.

Our attorneys have extensive experience relating to the development of new interstate and intrastate gas pipeline and storage facilities, tariffs and project planning under applicable federal regulations. We have represented interstate and intrastate gas pipelines, investor-owned and municipally-owned gas distributors, gas marketing companies, electric utilities and other parties with natural gas industry concerns before FERC and the federal courts. We have worked on matters with respect to the Natural Gas Policy Act (NGPA) and the Natural Gas Act (NGA).

Preparation of Pipeline Certificate Applications

BGM assists clients in the preparation of applications for certificates of public convenience and necessity by FERC-jurisdictional pipelines, including applications for the construction and operation of pipeline and storage projects. Our attorneys initiate pre-filing meetings with FERC staff, prepare amended and supplemental filings, respond to FERC staff information requests and prepare numerous formal pleadings in such certificate proceedings.

Representation of Electric Utilities in FERC Natural Gas Proceedings

BGM counsels electric utilities in their transactions with natural gas pipelines and storage providers before FERC. Many utilities across the country use gas-fired generation as an integral part of their resources portfolios. Utilities often acquire transportation capacity on gas pipelines to transport the gas to their generating plants. We have considerable experience representing electric utilities as customers of natural gas pipelines, including full system-wide rate cases, technical conferences, administrative litigation, preparation of briefs and requests for rehearing, and preparation of appeals and appellate briefs. We also are experienced at negotiating and reviewing service agreements between pipelines and electric utility customers as well as agreements with producers and marketers. We counsel electric utility clients with regard to tariff matters, service agreements, construction of delivery facilities, negotiation of tolling agreements and related transactions.