UGI Utilities Natural Gas Pipeline Safety Compliance

under investigation

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is seeking $2.57 million in civil penalties from UGI Utilities Inc. for violations related to a deadly March 2023 natural gas explosion caused in part by degradation of a retired 1982 Aldyl A polyethylene service tee. The explosion occurred at the R.M. Palmer Co. candy factory in West Reading, Pennsylvania, killing seven people and causing significant property damage. The PUC alleges multiple safety violations including failure to maintain accurate pipeline records, assess risks from elevated ground temperature, and replace or repair unsafe pipeline infrastructure.