01/08/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/08/2025 14:26
Published on 1/8/2025
First-of-its-Kind Residential Methane Detector Pilot Program, Accelerated Pipe Replacement, and Enhanced Safety Coordination Highlight Joint Commitment to Protect Philadelphia Residents
HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) today approved a landmark settlement with Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW), transforming the lessons of a tragic 2019 house explosion into a set of pioneering safety initiatives. These measures include a first-of-its-kind program to provide residential methane detectors, a commitment to seek federal funding to modernize aging infrastructure, and enhanced collaboration with key stakeholders.
The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the revised settlement presented by the PUC's independent Bureau of Investigation and Enforcement (I&E) and PGW. The settlement resolves a complaint filed by I&E following the investigation of a December 2019 house explosion on South 8th Street in Philadelphia, which resulted in two fatalities and the evacuation of approximately 60 residents. The incident destroyed or damaged multiple homes, with total property damage estimated at $1.4 million.
"Today's settlement reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding the citizens of Pennsylvania," said PUC Chairman Stephen M. DeFrank. "While we can never undo the tragic events of 2019, we can honor the victims by turning this incident into an opportunity for meaningful change. Launching a first-of-its-kind methane detector program and accelerating the replacement of aging infrastructure underscore our top priority of public safety."
Key Safety Initiatives
"Maximizing investment in utility infrastructure as well as investing in the men and women in the trenches doing the backbreaking work of replacing underground utilities - including century-old cast iron gas and water pipes - is our best bet at getting as close to a zero-incident rate as possible," noted PUC Vice Chair Kimberly Barrow, in her statement supporting the settlement.
Further, PUC Commissioner Kathryn L. Zerfuss, in a joint statement with Chairman DeFrank, underscored the significant resources being dedicated to safety measures aimed at preventing future catastrophes.
"This settlement represents a significant step forward for public safety," Commissioner Zerfuss emphasized. "By exploring a comprehensive set of prevention measures, innovative detection tools for residents, and expedited infrastructure upgrades, we can better protect Philadelphia's residents and businesses."
About the PUC
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities; ensures safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protects the public interest; educates consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; furthers economic development; and fosters new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.
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Docket No.: C-2022-3033834