Northeast Energy Center - Gas Pipeline Facility in Charlton, Massachusetts

The Northeast Energy Center is a gas pipeline facility located at 304 Southbridge Rd in Charlton, Massachusetts, within Worcester County. It operates under the jurisdiction of the United States, where pipeline infrastructure is regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) under 49 CFR Part 192 for gas pipelines. The facility is classified under NAICS codes 221121 (Electric Bulk Power Transmission and Control) and 486210 (Pipeline Transportation of Natural Gas), indicating its role in both power generation and gas transmission. As a gas pipeline facility, the Northeast Energy Center is part of a vast network that transports natural gas across the region. Typical gas pipelines in Massachusetts operate under strict safety standards, including cathodic protection systems to prevent corrosion and regular integrity assessments. The facility's location in central Massachusetts places it within a region with a mix of urban and rural areas, requiring careful management of pipeline safety and environmental impacts. The Northeast Energy Center contributes to the energy supply for the northeastern United States, supporting both residential heating and industrial power generation. Its operational status ensures continued delivery of natural gas, which is critical for the region's energy grid. The facility's presence in Charlton highlights the integration of pipeline infrastructure with local communities and the importance of regulatory compliance to maintain safety and reliability.

The facility is situated in Charlton, Massachusetts, an area with mixed land use including residential, agricultural, and forested zones. Proximity to populated areas and waterways necessitates robust pipeline safety measures, such as leak detection and cathodic protection, to mitigate risks associated with natural gas transport. The region's climate, with cold winters, increases demand for natural gas heating, underscoring the facility's role in energy supply while requiring careful environmental stewardship.