FERC has updated the Supporting Statement to reflect a clarification in the assumptions regarding burden calculation. In addition, FERC has corrected the Annual Cost to Federal Government calculation in both the Supporting Statement and in ROCIS.
Inventory as of this Action
Requested
Previously Approved
03/31/2012
36 Months From Approved
09/30/2009
168
0
96
168,275
0
92,947
0
0
0
The data filed under FERC-545 applies to general rate change applications filed by natural gas companies under section 4(e) of the NGA to reflect changes in rates based generally upon the pipeline companyÂs overall costs for all rates, and charges made, demanded, or received in connection with the transportation of natural gas. Setting just and reasonable rates require a balancing of equities between the interests of the pipeline and its ratepayers. FERC sets rates for interstate pipeline services in a number of proceedings. For example, when a pipeline files to increase its rates, it makes a filing with FERC under Section 4 of the NGA. These types of filings are referred to as general Section 4 rate cases. In the proceedings, FERC reviews all of a pipeline's rates and services. A pipeline can file a general Section 4 rate case anytime it wishes, provided the pipeline did not agree otherwise in a settlement. A pipeline must demonstrate that the new rates it proposes to charge are just and reasonable. When a rate increase filing is made pursuant to Section 4, the application is typically suspended and set for hearing by FERC Order. Once the application is set for hearing, it is processed by FERC staff. The issues in the application can be settled if parties can reach a consensus. However, if the issues cannot be resolved, they will proceed to a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ). Whether the case is settled or proceeds to hearing, FERC will eventually need to act upon the settlement, or upon the record in the hearing.
FERC is requiring in this Final Rule (RM01-5-000) to require regulated entities filing under Parts 35, 154, 284, 300 and 341 to make all tariff and rate case filings, as well as other material involved in these filings (see above) electronically. The creation of an electronic database will provide easier access to tariffs and allow the viewing of proposed tariff sections in context. One of the principal benefits of such a database is the ability to do historical research into tariffs. For example, proceedings such as complaints may involve past tariff provisions that have already been revised by the utility by the time the complaint is considered by the Commission. In order to expeditiously process such filings, the Commission, the parties, and the public need to be able to obtain the tariff provision that apply to the time period under review, rather than the currently effective tariff provision.
Final Rule (RM01-5-000) will assist the CommissionÂs efforts to comply with the Government Paperwork Elimination Act (GPEA) by developing the capability to file electronically with the Commission via the Internet with uniform formats using software that is readily available and easy to use and also achieve the PresidentÂs Management Agenda initiatives of expanding electronic government. The provision of an electronic database of company tariffs will make such information available more efficiently and to a broader audience.
The database will provide easier access to tariffs and allow the viewing of proposed tariff sections in context. One of the principal benefits of such a database is the ability to do historical research into tariffs. For example, proceedings such as complaints may involve past tariff provisions that have already been revised by the utility by the time the complaint is considered by the Commission. In order to expeditiously process such filings, the Commission, the parties, and the public need to be able to obtain the tariff provision that apply to the time period under review, rather than the currently effective tariff provision.
On behalf of this Federal agency, I certify that the collection of information encompassed by this request complies with 5 CFR 1320.9 and the related provisions of 5 CFR 1320.8(b)(3).
The following is a summary of the topics, regarding the proposed collection of information, that the certification covers:
(i) Why the information is being collected;
(ii) Use of information;
(iii) Burden estimate;
(iv) Nature of response (voluntary, required for a benefit, or mandatory);
(v) Nature and extent of confidentiality; and
(vi) Need to display currently valid OMB control number;
If you are unable to certify compliance with any of these provisions, identify the item by leaving the box unchecked and explain the reason in the Supporting Statement.
FERC Implementation Guide for Electronic Tariff Filing v 0.9.15.08.doc
09-18-08-M-1.pdf
Gas Pipeline Rates: Rate Change (Non-formal)