The New York State Public Service Commission has approved a settlement agreement with National Fuel Gas Distribution Company (NFG) regarding alleged violations connected to a natural gas explosion in Niagara Falls in 2024.
According to the Commission, the incident occurred at 820 20th Street, a multi-family rental property. On May 1, 2024, an NFG employee was sent to turn on service for a new resident. Upon arrival, the employee found raw sewage at the bottom of the basement stairs but did not enter to inspect the furnace and hot water heater. The employee left without performing required safety checks and turned on the gas meter service valve. Shortly after, an explosion destroyed the building and caused injuries to a first-floor resident who managed to escape.
A subsequent investigation by the Department found that the NFG employee should not have activated gas service under those conditions and had misrepresented appliance conditions in company records.
Under the terms of the settlement, NFG shareholders will pay $700,000 for enhanced safety measures and training intended to prevent similar incidents.
“The Commission takes very seriously its role of ensuring the public’s safety,” said Commission Chair Rory M. Christian. “The decision reached regarding this gas explosion clearly demonstrates that we will hold utilities and their shareholders fully accountable through enforcement actions to protect the public.”
Details about today’s decision can be accessed on the Commission’s website at www.dps.ny.gov by searching Case Number 25-G-0202. Additional information is also available from libraries offering internet access or from the Commission’s Files Office in Albany.
