The South Dakota Public Utilities Commission listened to a proposal from Mid American Energy to take over service to about two hundred “farm taps” in the state. When Northern Natural Gas built their main gas pipeline through the state in the 1950s, they promised natural gas service to landowners that game them easements. Northwestern Energy, who has been the gas retailer for the taps, wants to get out of that role.
PUC Chair, Kristie Fiegen says while they don’t have authority over Northern Natural Gas, she will continue to push them to be more involved.
Mid American expressed concerns for the safety of those lines, and wants them tested before they take them over, which could be expensive for the users.
Commissioner Chris Nelson says there should be a reasonable standard.
Fiegen says she thinks safety standards have to be considered.
The PUC staff will continue talking to the gas companies, and come back with more information for their August fifteenth meeting.
(WNAX)