PROVIDENCE, R.I. – Today, Lt. Governor Daniel J. McKee notified the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission that he opposes National Grid's proposal to increase gas pipeline capacity at the expense of Rhode Island electric customers.
Through Docket 4627, National Grid is seeking permission from the Public Utilities Commission to recover the costs associated with Algonquin Gas Transmission, LLC's proposed natural gas pipeline expansion from electric ratepayers.
Lt. Governor McKee supports the concept of developing additional pipeline capacity for New England. Such expansion has the potential to alleviate the risk of supply shortfalls and resultant price spikes for ratepayers on the coldest days in winter.
However, Lt. Governor McKee opposes National Grid's current proposal because it creates undue risks and costs for Rhode Island electric ratepayers, especially small businesses.
"Although I support pipeline expansion in concept, National Grid's current proposal imposes undue costs and risks on Rhode Island ratepayers—something I cannot endorse as an advocate for our state's small business community," said Lt. Governor McKee. "I will continue to intervene before the Public Utilities Commission on Dockets like 4627 to protect the interests of Rhode Island's small commercial and residential customers."
Media Contact: Andrea Palagi | andrea.palagi@ltgov.ri.gov | (401) 222-2371