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KPBS Midday Edition

Work To Begin Soon On Massive Natural Gas Pipeline Project

The new 16-inch pipes that have been purchased for the new SDG&E pipeline projects in this photo dated Oct. 23, 2019.
San Diego Gas & Electric
The new 16-inch pipes that have been purchased for the new SDG&E pipeline projects in this photo dated Oct. 23, 2019.

After receiving unanimous approval from the California Public Utilities Commission, San Diego Gas & Electric and its subsidiary SoCalGas will begin work on a 50-mile natural gas pipeline project later this month.

The pipeline will run primarily along the Interstate 15 corridor. Most of the existing gas line, installed in 1949, will be replaced. Other portions will be pressure tested and replaced if needed. Environmental groups call the $677 million project a waste of money that moves the state away from a carbon-free future.

RELATED: A Tentative No: SDG&E Gas Pipeline Gets Negative Evaluation

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Rob Nikolewski, energy reporter with The San Diego Union-Tribune, joined Midday Edition on Friday to discuss the controversy over the project.