Tuscarora Gas Transmission is seeking FERC authority to build a16.4-mile, 10,000 Dth/d lateral to meet the growing winter gasneeds of LDC affiliate Sierra Pacific Power Co. (SPPC) in thenorthern and western sections of Nevada.

The Reno, NV-based pipeline is asking the Commission forexpedited approval of the $10.2 million project so that it can beup and running by the start of the next winter heating season,which starts Nov. 1.

Without the so-called Hungry Valley lateral, SPPC has warnedthat its interruptible industrial customers in the northern andwestern portions of the state may be “fully curtailed for over amonth” in the event temperatures plunge to 5 degrees or below nextwinter. Also, “periodic curtailment” is possible for the utility’sfirm commercial and industrial customers, as well as itsresidential users, Tuscarora told FERC in its application.

“In light of SPPC’s forecasted difficulties during the heatingseason of 2000-2001, Tuscarora submits that it is appropriate forthe Commission to consider this application on an expedited basis,”the pipeline noted.

The proposed lateral would serve a new city-gate for SPPC inLemmon Valley, NV, which is designed to accommodate the 4.6% annualgrowth in the utility’s customer base, Tuscarora noted. The utilityhas contracted for the entire capacity of the lateral for a 15-yearterm.

Tuscarora said it will be able to provide the new capacitybecause PG&E Gas Transmission-Northwest has agreed to increasethe minimum average delivery pressure to 825 psig from 700 psig forTuscarora at the Malin, OR, interconnect.

Susan Parker

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