Risk: Medium Gas Distribution Station Operational

PG&E Lone Star Metering and Odorizing Station - Williams, California Gas Distribution

WILLIAMS, California, United States

Overview

PG&E's Lone Star Metering and Odorizing Station in Williams, California, is an operational gas distribution facility serving the Colusa County area under PHMSA and DOT 49 CFR Part 192 regulations.

PG&E's Lone Star Metering and Odorizing Station is a gas distribution facility located in Williams, California, within Colusa County. The station is part of Pacific Gas and Electric Company's natural gas network, providing metering and odorization services to ensure safe gas delivery to local communities. As a gas distribution station, it operates under the regulatory oversight of the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and complies with DOT 49 CFR Part 192 standards for pipeline safety. The facility's primary function involves measuring gas flow and adding odorant for leak detection, a standard practice in gas distribution. Gas distribution stations of this type typically handle moderate volumes to serve residential, commercial, and small industrial customers. The station's location in a rural agricultural area of California's Central Valley influences its operational profile, with lower population density compared to urban centers. Environmentally, the station's proximity to agricultural land and the Sacramento River watershed requires careful management to prevent leaks and minimize emissions. PG&E's compliance with state and federal regulations, including California's stringent air quality standards, underscores the facility's role in maintaining safe and reliable gas service while addressing environmental concerns. The station contributes to the regional energy infrastructure, supporting local economic activity and community energy needs.

Environmental context

The station is situated in a rural agricultural region of California's Central Valley, an area with significant air quality concerns due to ozone and particulate matter. Proximity to the Sacramento River watershed necessitates careful spill prevention and leak detection to protect water resources. Seismic activity in California poses a risk to gas infrastructure, requiring adherence to stringent design and maintenance standards under PHMSA regulations.

Frequently asked questions

The station is located at Lone Star Road and Abel Road in Williams, California, within Colusa County.

A gas metering and odorizing station measures the flow of natural gas and adds an odorant (typically mercaptan) to enable leak detection by smell, ensuring safety in gas distribution.

The station is operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major utility serving northern and central California.

Gas distribution stations in the U.S. are regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under DOT 49 CFR Part 192, which covers pipeline safety, design, and operation.

Seismic activity poses a risk of pipeline rupture or damage. California gas facilities must comply with PHMSA regulations that include seismic design standards, regular inspections, and emergency response plans to mitigate earthquake risks.

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