Schiff Hardin has an extensive natural gas regulatory practice with experience in almost every area of the industry, representing interstate pipelines, local distribution companies (LDCs), producers, gas processors, storage companies, gas-fired generators and other end users before the FERC, Department of Energy, and the courts.
Our diverse representations and knowledge of differing market perspectives gives us an edge in representing pipelines, LDCs, gas-fired generators, and other end users of natural gas in regulatory proceedings.
Our firm's experience encompasses the full range of FERC and Department of Energy proceedings, including:
- Rate and tariff proceedings
- Complaint proceedings
- Enforcement actions
- Judicial review
- Compliance counseling and training
- Supply and contract negotiations
- Affiliate transactions
- Certificate applications
- Rulemakings
- Natural gas import authority
In recent years, we have represented our natural gas clients in:
- Contested gas quality proceedings before FERC on numerous pipelines
- Matters regarding the interchangeability of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and potential liability for damages to gas distribution infrastructure
- Complex interrelated disputes with another pipeline. Columbia Gulf Transmission Company v. Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company and Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company v. Columbia Gulf Transmission Company.
- Petitions for review of FERC orders. Since 2004, we have represented appellants in five cases before the court of appeals, including Columbia Gas Transmission Co. v. FERC, 404 F.3d 459 (D.C. Cir. 2005), and Columbia Gas Transmission Co. v. FERC, 448 F.3d 382 (D.C. Cir 2006). Most recently, we represented Washington Gas Light Company in a successful appeal of FERC orders approving an expansion of the Cove Point LNG facility in Maryland. Washington Gas Light Co. v. FERC, 532 F.3d 928 (D.C. Cir. 2008).
We have also counseled our clients on issues regarding the Department of Transportation, Canada's National Energy Board and various state commissions. Further, we have represented LDC clients throughout the United States before the FERC in rate, tariff and certificate matters involving more than ten interstate natural gas pipelines. Much of this representation is on behalf of groups of multiple clients, which provides us with the ability to derive consensus and provides clients with enhanced value for their legal services.
Schiff Hardin attorneys have also been involved in several recent FERC proceedings concerning filings by interstate natural gas pipelines and LNG facilities to obtain certificates for new facilities and authority to provide new services.