Press Release

PUC Increases Enforcement in Marcellus Shale Counties

Published on 2/12/2010

Filed under: Transportation and Safety

HARRISBURG - The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has increased its enforcement presence in the five-county area of northeastern Pennsylvania connected to the Marcellus Shale geologic formation.

The increase in enforcement is a result of several complaints received by the Commission involving carriers transporting commodities without a PUC certificate.  Complainants also alleged that several carriers were violating the PUC’s hours of service regulations. Increased inspections are taking place in Tioga, Bradford, Sullivan, Wyoming and Susquehanna counties to ensure the motor carriers are complying with PUC regulations.

Marcellus Shale is a geologic formation underlying much of western and northern Pennsylvania long known to contain large amounts of natural gas.  The combination of higher natural gas prices and improved drilling techniques create economic viability for drilling in the Marcellus Shale region. 

Trucking companies are required to have a PUC property certificate and proof of insurance if they are involved with transporting commodities related to the drilling operation, such as water, sand and stone. Carriers operating without the certificate and insurance can be subject to Commission penalties.  Also carriers violating the safety regulations that pertain to the drivers and equipment can be cited and placed out-of-service.

Information on obtaining a PUC property certificate can be accessed by contacting the PUC Application unit at 717-787-3834.  Questions concerning the safety regulations can be directed to the PUC Safety Office at 717-772-2254. Applications are available on the PUC website.

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission balances the needs of consumers and utilities to ensure safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates; protect the public interest; educate consumers to make independent and informed utility choices; further economic development; and foster new technologies and competitive markets in an environmentally sound manner.

For recent news releases, audio of select Commission proceedings or more information about the PUC, visit our website at www.puc.state.pa.us.

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Contact:

• Denise McCracken
  Senior Communications Specialist
  717-787-5722
  demccracken@pa.gov