Compressor Stations

What Are Compressor Stations

Compressor stations house natural gas fired engines, turbines or electric motors that drive compressors to compress, or pump, natural gas to move it through the system. They are located strategically along a pipeline route. Compressor stations associated with interstate natural gas pipeline systems are regulated by FERC. Compressors also are used by producers in gathering facilities that are not regulated by FERC. Electric motor-driven compressors are very clean, and emit no particulate matter or pollutants. Natural gas-fired engines and turbines burn a portion of the natural gas in the pipeline and would emit pollutants. Air emissions are regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and state permitting authorities. These regulations are applicable to any source that emits or has the potential to emit any air contaminants, as defined in the Clean Air Act. Companies are required to obtain these federal permits, as applicable. 

Noise Levels

The noise attributable to a new compressor station, compression added to an existing station, or any modification, upgrade or update of an existing station, must not exceed a day-night average noise level of 55 decibels at any preexisting noise-sensitive areas such as schools, hospitals or residences. Companies perform noise surveys during initial operation of the approved facilities and report the results to FERC to document compliance. 

Vibrations

Vibration is caused by direct vibration or by low-frequency noise emitted from a compressor station. This is similar to what happens when noise from a speaker causes the floor to shake or when a helicopter flying overhead causes a window to rattle. Companies are required to comply with FERC’s rule at 18CFR 380.12(k)(4)(v)(B) to ensure that there is no increase in perceptible vibration from the operation of the compressor station. 

Environmental Impact

Numerous federal and state air quality rules and permits may apply to each compressor station. FERC will identify the required permits and regulations for each compressor station. We also identify the impacts on local and regional air quality from construction and operation of each compressor station.

Safety Concerns

All interstate natural gas facilities, including compressor stations, are required to comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Minimum Safety Standards. Compressor stations are constructed with many safety systems, such as gas and fire detection systems and emergency shutdown equipment. These systems are designed to ensure that in the event of an accident, the compressor station would be safely shut down with minimal risk to the public.