[BETA] Fortnightly

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has issued two final rules that seek to reduce the filing burden on the natural gas industry. One simplifies the Uniform System of Accounts and the FERC's reporting requirements (Docket No. RM95-4-000). The other simplifies the filing requirements for making rate and tariff changes under Part 154 of the regulations (Docket No. RM95-3-000).

The rules recognize that most interstate pipelines now serve as transporters rather than as merchants. The simplifications instituted in RM95-4-000 will

reduce the reporting burden by almost 13 percent, or 61,824 hours. Several forms are also eliminated, such as Form 8, the monthly storage report, and Form 14, the annual report for importers or exporters.

In addition, the FERC eliminated the requirement that pipelines compare, on a quarterly basis, actual costs versus projections. Only one update will be required, and only a summary of statement G, which provides information on operating and sales volumes. The rules also delay implementation of revised electronic filing requirements to allow further industry input. Steps were taken to improve rate case processing, and to standardize terms and conditions (all rates now must be stated in thermal units).

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