Overview

• The commission voted 6–1 to adopt the plan and, while it cannot authorize construction, it affirmed a reliability need and directed National Grid to file improved forecasts, a review of its Greenpoint LNG facility, and contingency plans with or without NESE.
• DEC deemed the NESE application complete for public review in July, closed the comment period on Aug. 16, and continues to evaluate the submissions before issuing any permit decisions.
• National Grid says customers in New York City and Long Island would cover about $1.064 billion in construction costs, translating to an average 3.5% bill increase of roughly $7.50 per month, and it projects reliability and broader electric system benefits.
• Environmental advocates warn the project would damage water quality and marine life and burden ratepayers for years; actor Mark Ruffalo joined calls to delay the vote and critics alleged political pressure behind the project’s revival.
• Williams contends the pipeline is essential to relieve downstate gas constraints and targets late 2027 for operations if permits are granted, with the route running under New York Harbor to Far Rockaway, Queens.