$3 Billion Natural Gas Pipeline Shelved in New England; Controversy Remains

"Eversource and National Grid, the two biggest utilities in the state, are shelving a $3.2 billion natural gas pipeline project known as Access Northeast until they can find a way to pay for it," reports Jon Chesto.

"The companies argue that the pipeline expansion is needed to bring cheaper natural gas to the region’s power plants, particularly on cold days, when demand rises. But they need more time to build political support for legislation that would allow the costs to be shouldered by electricity customers," adds Chesto.

The state Supreme Judicial Court decided last year that a plan to have electricity ratepayers pay for the pipeline expansion could not be approved under state law.

Chesto provides additional context for the project proposal, which is just one example of growing political controversy in the state of Massachusetts surrounding natural gas infrastructure.