WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H) released the following statements today in response to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) order last night approving Spectra Energy’s Algonquin Incremental Market (AIM) project. In late January, the senators urged FERC to quickly reach a decision regarding the project, which will expand natural gas pipeline capacity across the region and lower energy prices for consumers.

“FERC’s decision is welcome news for people across New England who continue to suffer under the burdens of high energy bills,” said Senator King, a member of the Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “Expanding natural gas pipeline infrastructure is one of the best ways we can reduce energy costs, put more money back into peoples’ pockets, and reduce the region’s impact on climate change by displacing more oil and coal. I am pleased FERC ruled expeditiously, and I look forward to finding additional ways in which we can expand pipeline infrastructure in New England to help relieve the bottleneck driving up energy prices.”

“In the midst of an especially harsh winter, approval of this expansion project is welcome news for improving the region’s natural gas capacity that is so greatly needed,” said Senator Collins. “Efforts to expand and improve natural gas infrastructure is critically important for improving access and reliability and for lowering energy costs for Maine residents and businesses.”

“The decision to move forward with the AIM project after a thorough, comprehensive environmental review is welcome news for all of New England,” Senator Shaheen said. “Each winter highlights our region’s unique challenges when it comes to the transportation and distribution of natural gas, and I am looking forward to continue working with FERC and stakeholders throughout New England so that we can see this project through to completion.”

FERC issued an order last night approving the AIM project, which will expand Spectra’s existing pipeline from New York to Massachusetts and bring more natural gas into the region.

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