NGA’s Bob Wilson participated in a panel discussion regarding Gas Alarm Technology at NARUC’s Summer Policy Summit in Boston. The panel, moderated by Stephanie Wimer of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission, included Kevin Speicher, Chief Pipeline Safety NYSDPS, Dennis Jarnecke, Senior Director Research, GTI Energy, NGA’s Bob Wilson, Vice President Special Projects and Richard Trieste, Jr, Department Manager – Research, Development, and Demonstration Consolidated Edison Company of New York.

The session focused on how advanced gas alarm technology can complement current regulatory frameworks by adding safeguards against leaks. Topics discussed and shared with participants included advances in sensor technology for both stand-alone consumer devices and smart meter connected devices, the evolution of tools that enable broader industry and consumer adoption such as the recently updated NFPA 715 Fuel Gas Detector and warning equipment installation standard, UL 1484, the device performance standard, consumer education opportunities through pipeline safety public awareness programs and unique and innovative ways to integrate use through regulation and rate agreements.

Con Edison, arguably the largest “living laboratory” of natural gas sensor technology deployed in North America, described results of their program and how this technology provides an additional layer of protection above and beyond odor recognition. Bob Wilson summarized the opportunity for broader adoption of this important safety technology and described how the industry now has the tools necessary to move forward including proven, reliable technology, consensus-based NFPA installation standards coupled with enhanced UL performance standards.

You can find Bob’s presentation here: Gas Alarm Technology - NARUC Summer Policy Summit