[Docket No. RMU-2022-0010]
The Iowa Utilities Board (herein Board) proposes to amend Chapter 10, “Intrastate Gas Pipelines and Underground Gas Storage,” Iowa Administrative Code. This proposed rule making requires companies proposing to construct renewable natural gas (RNG) facilities that render natural gas from landfills and animal operations (such as dairies) and that interconnect with intrastate or interstate natural gas pipeline systems to obtain a permit from the Board for construction of gathering lines associated with the project.
The proposed amendments define “gathering line” as a natural gas pipeline that transports gas from an anaerobic digester, or similar facility, to a gas treatment center or natural gas transmission line. The Board is proposing the amendments based on the number of companies proposing to construct RNG facilities and because the federal Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA) is requiring the Board to inspect the gathering lines under the Board’s agency contract with PHMSA. The proposed amendments allow the Board to ensure that gathering lines are constructed in compliance with federal and Board regulations.
Written comments in response to this rule making must be received no later than November 8, 2022, via email to ITSupport@iub.iowa.gov. A public hearing will be held on December 16, 2022, 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. at the Board Hearing Room, 1375 East Court Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa.
This proposed rule making is available for viewing in the Board’s electric filing system, under Docket No. RMU-2022-0010.