The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission will not conduct a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement on regional pipeline projects, including the proposed Atlantic Coast Pipeline.
The move is being met with criticism by environmental groups in light of reports that have shown that the regional projects are not adequately scrutinized by regulators on a regional basis.
“With seven new pipelines planned for the region, including three in Virginia, a PEIS was the primary means to adequately assess the necessity and consequences of the proposed pipeline projects in Virginia and West Virginia – including the significant impact to our climate of this massive gas buildout. Now, it is uncertain how federal regulators will consider the cumulative impacts of multiple pipelines on local communities and our environment,” said Sierra Club Virginia Chapter Director Kate Addleson.
“FERC’s decision to forgo a PEIS is in direct opposition to the requests of thousands of landowners and concerned citizens, including many local elected officials, industry experts, and public interest organizations. We will continue to work with other advocates and area residents to highlight the public health and environmental concerns related to the Atlantic Coast Pipeline,” Addleson said.
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