National Grid Halts New NYC Gas Customers Until Pipeline OK’d

National Grid Plc won’t take any new natural gas customers in the New York City area and on Long Island until New York State approves Williams Cos.’ $1 billion shale gas pipeline project, the company said May 17.

National Grid, the main customer for the Northeast Supply Enhancement project, which expands Williams’ existing system through New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, and has said it needs the new segments to meet growing demand.

The utility company’s announcement comes after the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on May 15 denied a crucial permit for the ...