PG&E fined $1.27M for failure to fix corroding pipes

SAN FRANCISCO - PG&E received a $1.27 million fine and citation for failing to promptly fix problems with corrosion prevention systems in its natural gas pipelines, the California Public Utilities Commission announced on Friday.   

Following an investigation, the state oversight commission concluded that PG&E did not address issues in 127 natural gas pipeline locations in a timely manner. 

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The locations specifically lacked adequate cathodic protection systems, which are required to protect pipeline corrosion. Some locations had deficient systems for over three years, according to the citation.   

"[Cathodic protection] is a time-dependent threat. Over time, low or inadequate CP can cause corrosion, pipe wall loss, and/or pipeline failure," reads the citation. 

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"PG&E's long duration of non-compliance of minimum CP requirements will likely impact the safety and reliability of its natural gas service."   

Shareholders of PG&E have 30 days to pay the fine to the state's general fund and make corrections or request a hearing.