Why work with NIPSCO on your Renewable Natural Gas needs?
We partner with renewable natural gas producers to help you connect to our natural gas delivery system.
There are many benefits to becoming a trusted renewable natural gas supplier within the NIPSCO network in addition to the positive impact renewable gas can have on our environment. By working with NIPSCO, renewable natural gas suppliers gain an experienced partner who understands the financial, time, and safety commitments required to successfully transport and deliver renewable natural gas. We work with renewable natural gas suppliers each step of the way to help the development of the connection while also providing transparency in how we operate.
Renewable natural gas suppliers also gain a stable partner who has been supplying the energy needs of customers for decades. By continuing to expand our energy infrastructure, we can continue to meet the sustainable energy needs of customers for the next 100 years and beyond.
How to get your Renewable Natural Gas project started
The process for joining NIPSCO’s distribution system is divided into seven main steps.
Step 1 - Information Sharing
The renewable natural gas supplier will be asked to complete an information form to provide NIPSCO with details on the renewable natural gas supply. This helps us learn about the supply source, location, and volume.
Step 2 - Interconnection Screening
NIPSCO will perform a free, non-binding assessment of the details provided in the information form to determine potential points to connect to our natural gas delivery system and identify possible pipeline route options.
Step 3 - Preliminary Analysis
Pending acceptance of the Interconnection Screening results by the renewable natural gas supplier, NIPSCO will perform a preliminary analysis to determine any system constraints of the proposed renewable natural gas project and develop preliminary route recommendations by identifying potential obstructions along the route. Based on this review, NIPSCO will develop an estimate for connecting the renewable natural gas supply to our natural gas delivery system. This estimate will be communicated with the renewable natural gas supplier to confirm it will meet their requirements.
Step 4 - Detailed Analysis
Pending acceptance of the Preliminary Analysis results, NIPSCO will perform a detailed analysis to finalize the specifics of the interconnection including confirmation of the route and any obstructions along the route. Also during this stage, NIPSCO will further refine the project cost estimate to achieve a final estimate.
Step 5 - Contracting
NIPSCO will send an Interconnection Agreement to the renewable natural gas supplier for signature. Once signed, the renewable natural gas supplier may begin preparations for the project launch (e.g., obtain permits, secure financing, prepare for facility construction).
Step 6 - Construction
During this step of the process, NIPSCO will begin preconstruction preparations and subsequent construction for connecting the renewable natural gas supply to our natural gas delivery system. Regular updates will be provided to the renewable natural gas supplier to support timely completion.
Step 7 - Continued Relationship
We understand that the relationship with a renewable natural gas supplier doesn’t end after construction. Instead, we are committed to supporting the renewable natural gas supplier through reoccurring maintenance and gas quality monitoring as the project matures.
There is no cost for renewable natural gas suppliers who wish to submit their renewable natural gas information to NIPSCO for consideration (Steps 1 and 2). However, if all parties agree to proceed to Step 3 or Step 4, a fee will be required to support the effort involved in the analysis of the renewable natural gas facility and interconnection with NIPSCO's facilities.
If you are interested in working together to create sustainable solutions, please fill out the renewable natural gas information form.
Submit your Renewable Natural Gas Application today!
Frequently asked questions
How much does a typical renewable natural gas project cost?
The cost of a renewable natural gas project will vary and depends on the project size and location, among many other variables. During the third step of the review process, the Preliminary Analysis, NIPSCO will determine a preliminary quote for the project costs which will be communicated with the prospective renewable natural gas supplier to confirm the project will meet its requirements.
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How does NIPSCO decide which renewable natural gas projects to proceed with?
Each connection request submitted by renewable natural gas producers to NIPSCO will be fully reviewed to evaluate the logistics related to interconnecting a producer to our system and the cost thereof. Depending on the considerations set forth below, there may be times where it will be challenging to provide service to a proposed project.
Location – The distance from the renewable natural gas location to existing NIPSCO infrastructure is an important consideration. At certain distances, it may not be feasible or cost- effective to build new connection infrastructure for either party.
Capacity and Commodity – To receive the renewable natural gas supply, there needs to be available capacity at that location and a need for the additional commodity.
Safety – It is our responsibility to deliver safe, reliable, and clean energy to our customers. Because of this, we must ensure any renewable natural gas that enters our system meets gas quality standards.
Reliability – NIPSCO is seeking long-term renewable natural gas suppliers to guarantee we can continue to deliver sustainable energy solutions to customers for years to come.
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How long does the renewable natural gas review process take?
The NIPSCO review process consists of several steps. Once we receive the completed information form, a member from our team will respond with the results of the Interconnection Screening within 15 business days.
The next step would be a Preliminary Analysis which typically takes up to 60 business days to complete, followed by the Detailed Analysis, Contracting, and Construction steps which can take up to 24 months to complete depending on the scope of the project.
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Questions?
We understand that the interconnection process can be complex, but we’re here to help. If you have any questions about the process, or other questions related to renewable energy, please contact cnb@NiSource.com.