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Independent regulatory commissions

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Issues Environmental Assessment and Environmental Impact Statement

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has released an Environmental Assessment (EA) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Viking Gas Transmission Company, a pipeline project. The EA and EIS evaluate the potential environmental impacts of the project, including effects on endangered species, historic preservation, and coastal zone management. The report concludes that an environmental impact statement is required for the project.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Viking Gas Transmission Company filed its Annual Report with the FERC on May 1, 2025, reporting activity performed under the Part 157, Subpart F, Sections 157.208-157.216 blanket automatic activity program.
  • The project involves the construction of pipelines, above-ground facilities, cathodic protection ground beds, compression, and pipeline rehabilitation.
  • The report identifies 157 projects that were completed, with 200,000 feet of pipeline constructed.
  • The company reported no ground disturbance or offshore projects, making ESA, NHPA, or CZMA clearances unnecessary.
  • The report reveals deficiencies in reporting, including the lack of Endangered Species Act (ESA) consultation and National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) consultation for some projects.
  • The FERC staff required supplemental photos or field inspections for select projects to ensure satisfactory restoration of disturbed areas.
  • The company must address reporting deficiencies by filing supplemental information in the docket by May 1, 2026.

Statistics:

  • 157 projects were completed as part of the Viking Gas Transmission Company's pipeline project.
  • 200,000 feet of pipeline were constructed.
  • 0 projects involved ground disturbance or were located offshore, exempting them from ESA, NHPA, or CZMA clearances.
  • 0 projects required CZMA clearances, as they were not located within the U.S. Coastal Zone.

Sources:

  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Energy Projects, Division of Gas-Environment & Engineering, Environmental Assessment Report, Docket No. CP25-452-000, September 25, 2025.
  • Viking Gas Transmission Company, CP25-452-000 Environmental Compliance Review, September 25, 2025.

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