News Release

Phoenix, Ariz. – Arizona’s gas utilities and pipeline companies including Southwest Gas, UNS Gas, Alliant Gas, El Paso Natural Gas, and Transwestern Pipeline, presented their detailed winter service reliability plans. These organizations are responsible for interstate infrastructure across diverse service areas, ensuring gas is delivered safely and efficiently.

Chairman Jim O’Connor reassured residents about the sufficiency of gas supplies for the anticipated rainier-than-normal winter, emphasizing the utilities' readiness for the season. The companies presented their emergency strategies for potential outages and severe weather conditions, focusing on maintaining adequate supplies.

The Commissioners raised questions about reliability, health, and safety concerns surrounding neighboring states. The utilities confirmed that they expect no service outages, but information on service disruptions would be available through 24/7 call centers and social media.

Key insights from the meeting include:

- Southwest Gas outlined their approach to natural gas market updates and customer support, projecting an average winter bill of $81.04. They discussed complexities in coordinating with electric utilities and their preparedness for extreme weather.

- UNS Gas, operating in the state's colder regions, highlighted a hedging strategy, covering 70%-80% of their winter supply, and their dependency on daily forecasts and pipeline suppliers. Their average monthly residential bill is estimated to be $80.48.

- Alliant Gas showcased its contracted 6.9 million gallons of propane gas supply and reserves for its customers in Page and Payson.

- El Paso Natural Gas and Transwestern Pipeline, mainly serving as transporters, elaborated on their extensive pipeline networks and their role in secure gas delivery.

- Transwestern Pipeline discussed expansion plans for the Phoenix Lateral, pending a 3–4-year FERC permitting process, to enhance service in the Greater Arizona area.

These discussions illustrated the sector's thorough approach to addressing Arizona's energy needs during winter, with an emphasis on system integrity, emergency readiness, and effective communication with customers.

All documents relating to this workshop can be found in the Commission's online docket at edocket.azcc.gov and entering docket number W-99999A-23-0018