Enhancing safety and reliability through pipeline modernization program
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – CenterPoint Energy is advancing its commitment to delivering safe, reliable natural gas service by entering the final phase of a multi-year pipeline modernization program throughout Indiana. With a planned $25 million investment in 2025, the company will replace more than 19 miles of aging bare steel and cast-iron pipelines with modern infrastructure designed to enhance system safety and reliability.
“Through strategic, long-term investments, we’ve strengthened our infrastructure with industry-grade materials that meet current federal and industry safety standards,” said Gregg Maurer, Vice President, Gas Operations, Indiana and Ohio. “As we move into the final phase of this work, our focus remains on completing these upgrades efficiently while minimizing disruptions for customers and communities.”
What’s ahead in 2025
CenterPoint’s natural gas pipeline modernization efforts will continue this year in Anderson, Daleville, Eaton, Elwood, Evansville, Harrodsburg, Hartford City, Huntington, Marion, Markle, Markleville, Muncie, Noblesville and Pendleton.
As part of these efforts, aging pipelines will be replaced with industry-grade materials that meet today’s safety and regulatory standards. These upgrades will improve system reliability, reduce the potential for leaks and support safe, consistent natural gas service for homes and businesses.
Advancing natural gas system modernization across Indiana
Over the past 16 years, CenterPoint has retired more than 1,030 miles of aging pipeline across its Indiana North & South service territories. These efforts have led to measurable reductions in leak-related service calls and operational emissions.
“As we continue modernizing our natural gas system and deploying advanced technologies, we’re making long-term investments that enhance safety, improve reliability and provide customers with a better overall experience,” Maurer added.
In addition to replacing bare steel and cast-iron pipelines, CenterPoint has implemented cutting-edge technologies to further strengthen its system, including:
· Picarro Advanced Mobile Leak Detection System: Which detects potential methane leaks 1,000 times more sensitively than traditional methods.
· Intelis natural gas smart meters: Which provide hourly usage tracking and built-in safety features.
By combining infrastructure upgrades with advanced technology investments, CenterPoint is continuing to enhance the safety and reliability of its natural gas system for customers and communities in Indiana.
What customers should expect
The replacement of natural gas mains under streets and sidewalks will be prioritized, followed by service lines that run directly to homes and businesses. Affected sidewalks, yards and streets will be restored as weather conditions allow. Timelines for each project will vary based on the scope of the project, weather and soil conditions. Crews will work safely and as quickly as possible to minimize impact on customers and surrounding areas.
Customers are urged to keep a safe distance away from any work sites. Additionally, if you smell the “rotten egg” odor of natural gas, avoid anything that could spark a flame and immediately leave on foot to a safe location. Once at a safe location, call both 911 and CenterPoint Energy at 800-227-1376.
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