Court Overturns FERC Approval of Gas Pipeline

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit has overturned the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) approval of the Transcontinental Pipe Line Co.'s Regional Energy Access Expansion Project, a significant win for New Jersey's climate advocates. The court ruled that FERC inadequately considered the project's environmental impacts, particularly its greenhouse gas emissions, and failed to address New Jersey state laws that mandate reductions in gas consumption. Judge J. Michelle Childs stated that FERC's prior approval was 'arbitrary and capricious' for not providing sufficient justification regarding emissions and market demand. This decision follows legal challenges from environmental groups and state officials, who argued that the project would exacerbate climate issues without demonstrating a clear need. The ruling mandates that FERC reassess the project, taking into account both environmental consequences and state energy laws. The case reflects a broader trend of increased scrutiny on fossil fuel projects amid growing climate concerns.