Blogs

APGA staff spoke to the Louisiana Gas Association (LGA) last week. As part of LGA’s Annual Operations Conference, a presentation was given on the new grant program just for public natural gas utilities that is being administered by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). APGA staff highlighted the information that is now publicly available, including project eligibility criteria. Also discussed were the next steps, such as the recently issued letter from PHMSA asking public natural gas utilities to register with several websites to ensure they receive future details. APGA staff let LGA members know that the notice of funding opportunity (NOFO) is still expected to be published in May of this year. After that happens, utilities can start applying for grants. For more on the grant program and to access webinar recordings, visit APGA’s PHMSA Pipeline Modernization Grants website here.

APGA staff also presented on updates regarding ongoing legislative and regulatory challenges, including the many appliance efficiency rulemakings pushing for electrification, as well as the unusual activity with the natural gas markets. There were brief updates on Section 5 Reform and other legislation negatively impacting the direct use of natural gas. Attendees were encouraged to engage with their elected officials and tell them the value of natural gas to homes, businesses, and industries.

For questions on this article, please contact Stuart Saulters of APGA staff by phone at 202-544-1334 or by email at ssaulters@apga.org.