A fast and effective way to curb emissions from aging natural gas infrastructure is to modernize by replacing aging pipes with advanced materials that can also handle lower-carbon fuels. New Jersey was among the first states to industrialize, and much of its infrastructure is now outdated. PSE&G has more underground cast-iron gas lines than any utility in the nation, some more than a century old.

In 2014, PSE&G began to accelerate the updating of its gas system by replacing aged pipes with state-of-the-art gas lines. We have replaced nearly 1,800 miles of gas lines under GSMP and other programs, reducing methane emissions by approximately 300,000 metric tons CO2e from 2011 to 2022 – the equivalent of taking 65,000 cars off the road. The second phase of the Gas System Modernization Program (GSMP II) was completed in early 2023, reducing our methane emissions by approximately 22% compared to 2018 levels. The updated lines are also more reliable. When Tropical Storm Ida caused widespread flooding in September 2021, 90,000 gas customers were spared shutoffs due to our modernizing efforts.

In October 2023 the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) approved an extension of GSMP II, which will allow PSE&G to upgrade at least 400 additional miles and run through 2025 – and which included a deferment of action on GSMP III.

GSMP supports Governor Murphy’s executive orders to accelerate the reduction of methane emissions— prioritizing and replacing pipelines most prone to leaks, especially in overburdened communities disproportionately impacted by climate change.

Modernizing the natural gas distribution system that nearly 2 million customers rely on to cook and heat their homes and businesses is part of PSE&G’s commitment to a clean energy future that considers affordability and reliability as we transition to a lower carbon future. PSEG favors a balanced approach to a lower carbon future, electrifying when and where it is possible and affordable. This approach recognizes the challenges of the clean energy transition. For example, electrifying space heat in New Jersey is costly and not viable for all homeowners. This is especially true for those living in older buildings, due to structural constraints, or with low or moderate incomes, due to the expense.

Modernizing the gas distribution system is something we can do today to reduce emissions contributing to climate change while providing customers with a reliable and affordable energy source.