The Algonquin Gas Transmission (AGT) Company, a main source of natural gas supply into New England, has traditionally operated near capacity only during the high-demand winter season.
But so far in 2012 (Jan 1-Sept 20), it has operated at much higher levels year-round as rising natural gas demand from the power sector, coupled with reduced liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports, have increased flows on pipelines into the region.
From June-August 2012, AGT averaged a winter-like 83% load factor (the amount of pipeline capacity that is being used). This is up from a 62% load factor for June-August 2011 and well above the average load factor of only 32% from June-August in the years 2005-2010.
[mappress] LNG World News Staff, December 27, 2012; Image: EIA