Fed agency delays decision on New England gas pipeline

WASHINGTON — A federal agency Wednesday delayed action on a major gas pipeline for New England. The project’s backer said the move would likely upset a tight construction timetable.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, in a 3-1 vote, said it needs more information before deciding on the 364.4-mile Iroquois Gas Pipeline, a project designed to link New England to Canadian gas fields. The commission, which has been considering the proposed pipeline for four years, said it needs more information on whether the gas is needed in the Northeast and on whether it would be supplied at competitive rates.

Under FERC’s decision, an administrative law judge would conduct a hearing on the outstanding issues within 45 days of when the commission formally issues its report on the project, which is expected within a few days. After the hearing, proponents and opponents would file written responses and then the commission would make a final decision by the end of November.

The president of the Iroquois Gas Transmission System, Robert J. Reid, said the delay would likely affect the pipeline’s projected construction schedule. Work was set to begin this fall and be completed in October 1991, in time for that winter’s heating season.