The US Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration has announced the allocation of grants totalling $196m for the modernisation of ageing natural gas pipelines across 20 states.
This initiative is part of President Joe Biden’s BIL and aims to support 60 projects focused on replacing outdated and leak-prone pipes that currently pose safety risks.
US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said: “Aging, leak-prone natural gas pipes can be dangerous, drive-up energy costs for families, and harm the environment, which is why the Biden-Harris Administration is supporting funds to replace ageing pipelines.”
White House National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi stated: “We are making significant progress in our efforts to cut pollution – including super-pollutants like methane – while creating thousands of good union jobs and lowering energy costs for Americans.
“By repairing and replacing ageing natural gas pipes throughout the country, we are taking the necessary action to protect communities and save families and businesses hundreds of dollars on their energy bills.”
Philadelphia Gas Works received $40m to replace 20 miles of high-risk cast-iron pipe, which is projected to save households an average of $250 on their energy bills.
The City of Richmond, Virginia, was allocated $15.7m for upgrading natural gas mains with corrosion-resistant materials and advanced technologies.
Toccoa Natural Gas, serving ten communities in Georgia and two in North Carolina, received $6.4m to replace 9.3 miles of outdated gas service lines, with anticipated savings of around $915 for customers.
Additionally, Tallahassee, Florida, is set to benefit from $6.4m for significant upgrades, including the replacement of 49 miles of high-density polyethylene pipe.
Finally, Sterling City, Texas, was awarded $3m to replace 11 miles of higher-risk bare steel pipe.
The grants have been given to first-time recipients in Alaska, Arizona, California, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas.
