Modernizing our Systems
When our systems are safe, reliable and resilient there is significant benefit to our customers and the environment. Our modernized system results in fewer leaks, and our diligent leak tracking and response program ensures timely repairs. With less natural gas escaping our system, we are also making an impact on greenhouse gas emissions.
| Main RETIRED / Installed in 2021, miles |
RETIRED |
Installed |
Total (Installed - RETIRED) |
| SJG |
113 |
172 |
59 |
| ETG |
85 |
74 |
-11 |
| Totals |
198 |
246 |
48 |
Pipeline Operations
To ensure the integrity of our system, we regularly inspect our pipelines throughout the areas we serve.
SJI's utilities inspect their transmission pipelines using External Corrosion Direct Assessment (ECDA) and Inline Inspection (ILI) technologies. The vast majority of our transmission pipelines are inspected using Inline Inspection, where a device is inserted into and travels through the pipeline. The device gauges and records if there are any signs of dents, corrosion, gouges, metal loss or any other anomalies. This gathered data is then used to assess the pipeline and determine the need for any repairs. In some instances, pipeline inspections are performed more frequently than required by regulations, allowing us to respond to leaks at an earlier point in time .
Pipeline Safety Management System
As part of its overall safety management system, SJI's Pipeline Safety Management System (PSMS), serves as a resource to improve pipeline safety, culture and performance.
Our utilities also use a third-party vendor to conduct leak surveys along our transmission system as follows:
- Highway and railroad crossings (quarterly)
- Transmission pipeline surveys (annually)
Additionally, for South Jersey Gas infrastructure, we utilize a combination of internal resources and a third-party vendor to conduct leak surveys on our distribution system as follows:
- Distribution mains (annually)
- Distribution services (every 3 calendar years)
- Business district services (annually)
- Exposed pipe survey (annually)
For Elizabethtown Gas infrastructure, we utilize a combination of internal resources and a third-party vendor to conduct leak surveys on our distribution system as follows:
- Distribution mains and services in business districts (annually)
- Unprotected steel and cast-iron distribution mains (annually)
- Remaining distribution mains and services (every 3 calendar years)
- Exposed pipe survey (quarterly or annually)
All surveys for both utilities are conducted using natural gas sensing equipment on vehicular and walking surveys along the pipelines, distribution mains and distribution services. This equipment can identify the location and potential classification of a leak, should one be encountered. This data is then used to inform the prioritization of repairs.
We understand the importance of pipeline safety to the communities in which we operate, and that our community stakeholders are our partners in ensuring natural gas safety. Accordingly, we strive to educate our community stakeholders about natural gas safety. Through our pipeline safety communications, in accordance with regulatory standards, we communicate not only to customers but also to the entire community we serve. We inform local officials, emergency responders, customers, residents and more of the importance of natural gas safety and safe practices, including how to detect a natural gas leak, how to safely conduct subsurface work and what to do in the event of a natural gas emergency.