D.C. cuts pipeline replacement plan, orders gas system investigation
(UI) — The District of Columbia Public Service Commission has approved a scaled-back version of Washington Gas Light’s pipeline replacement program while launching a new investigation into long-term planning for the city’s natural gas distribution system.
The commission voted 2–1 to approve a modified version of WGL’s District Strategic Accelerated Facilities Enhancement (SAFE) Plan, which targets high-risk, leak-prone gas mains and service lines. The three-year program will run from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2029, with a total budget of $150 million — about 30% lower than the utility’s original proposal.
Under the plan, annual spending caps are set at $45 million in the first year, $50 million in the second year and $55 million in the third year. The commission also required the budget to reset annually with no rollover of unused funds, a move intended to limit impacts on ratepayers while maintaining safety upgrades.
"The Commission reviewed the public comments and testimonies, and made a decision rooted in the public interest. Ratepayers expect their safety and reliability to come first, and to move forward with our climate commitments. This decision does both. It strengthens oversight of our infrastructure, and it creates a new proceeding so we can plan our system with safety and climate goals moving together, not against each other," stated Commission Chairman Emile Thompson.
The modified SAFE program shifts away from the broader accelerated pipe replacement approach previously used under PROJECTpipes. Instead, the program prioritizes projects using risk modeling to identify aging or leak-prone infrastructure most in need of replacement.
The commission also imposed new reporting and transparency requirements for WGL, including annual project lists and risk assessments using the JANA Lighthouse risk prioritization model. Utilities will be required to justify each pipeline replacement project and evaluate non-pipeline alternatives before proceeding.
Regulators said pipeline replacement should only occur when no viable alternative can address safety risks. The order also approved a modified Customer Choice Pilot Program allowing customers on lines scheduled for replacement to opt out of gas service.
Separately, the commission opened a new proceeding to evaluate long-term natural gas distribution planning in the District. The Integrated Natural Gas Distribution System Planning investigation will examine future infrastructure needs, risk management and the role of gas systems as the District moves toward electrification goals.
Commission staff have been directed to form a stakeholder working group within 75 days, with utilities, consumer advocates and industry groups invited to participate.
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