The FERC is an independent federal agency that regulates and oversees energy industries in the interest of the public. This includes oversight of interstate natural gas transportation and storage facilities. The FERC monitors and regulates Leaf River Energy Center’s development, construction and operations as a section 7(c) certificated facility under the Natural Gas Act. FERC issues Standards for Business Practices for Interstate Natural Gas Pipelines which provides major guidance for operating this facility as well.
The FERC coordinates with the North American Energy Standards Board (NAESB) in the development and promotions of standards which facilitate a marketplace for wholesale and retail natural gas and electricity, which is seamless, for its customers, business community, participants and regulatory entities.
Department of Transportation, Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (DOT): (www.phmsa.dot.gov/pipeline)
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is part of the Department of Transportation and it regulates the physical construction and daily operations of natural gas pipelines and their associated facilities. Specific regulations cover areas including but not limited to materials, construction, operations, integrity management, and personnel qualifications. PHMSA personnel routinely inspect all areas of pipeline operations.
State Government Oversight
The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality and the Mississippi Oil and Gas Board regulate specific aspects of operations including emissions from compressor engines and downhole cavern integrity. These agencies routinely perform inspections to ensure compliance with their specific regulations.
