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Comments Filed in Revisions to 100-foot Gas Rule
On June 26, 2026 parties filed comments on the proposed revisions to the 100-foot rule with the New York Public Service Commission.
As reported previously, the Commission opened this proceeding to consider broad issues related to planning by the natural gas utilities. The proceeding is a result of the supply constraints recently identified by several utilities in the state, which set off controversial attempts by the utilities to institute moratoria on connecting new natural gas customers to the distribution system.
In its instituting order, the NYPSC said, “Gas utilities need to learn from recent experience and adopt improved planning and operational practices that enable them to meet current customer needs and expectations in a transparent and equitable way while minimizing infrastructure investments and maintaining safe and reliable service. Among other things, planning efforts must also be conducted in a manner consistent with the recently enacted Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA).”
An overview of the comments is provided below:
Con Edison recommended clarifying that the revised requirements apply only to new gas service applicants, allowing utilities to continue using standardized cost estimates to provide customers with predictable upfront costs, excluding utility-required gas detection equipment from applicant-paid costs, and requiring applicants to petition the NYPSC for affordable housing surcharges.
NYSEG-RGE recommended that the draft regulations be clarified to provide that applicant payments may be based on reasonable cost estimates at the time service is requested and are not subject to a pre-installation true-up. Additionally, asking for clarity that utilities may install the meter and initiate service based on those estimated costs, with any necessary reconciliation to actual costs occurring after the meter has been installed.
National Grid utilities recommend retaining the adjusted gas revenue framework for non-residential customers, clarifying the definition of appurtenant facilities, allowing utilities to provide additional cost-justified infrastructure for non-residential applicants, and permitting the use of standardized unit costs for residential installations. National Grid utilities also seek guidance on applicant cost responsibilities, trenching requirements, cost-sharing and refunds for main extensions, grandfathering of existing applications, underground residential developments, multiple occupancy buildings, and multiple-meter installations.
Office of Assemblyman Jo Anne Simon commented in support of Staff’s draft revisions to Part 230, which implement the statutory changes eliminating the 100-foot rule. Assemblyman Jo Anne Simon stated that the revisions will end the longstanding practice of requiring existing customers to subsidize new gas service connections and instead ensure that applicants pay the costs of new gas infrastructure.
