Albany, New York, November 8, 2025
New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation has granted a water quality certification for the Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline, reversing its previous rejections. This decision aligns with initiatives supported by former President Donald Trump and aims to enhance natural gas supplies for New York City and Long Island, despite facing opposition from environmental advocates due to potential risks to water quality and marine ecosystems.
New York Approves Trump-Backed Gas Pipeline
ALBANY, New York — On November 7, 2025, New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) granted a water quality certification for the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) pipeline, a project previously rejected by the state on three occasions. This approval marks a significant shift in New York’s energy policy, aligning with initiatives supported by former President Donald Trump.
Details of the Pipeline Project
The NESE pipeline is designed to transport natural gas from Pennsylvania through New Jersey, extending into New York Harbor. The project aims to enhance fuel supplies for New York City and Long Island, addressing concerns about potential energy shortages in the region.
Environmental and Economic Implications
Environmental advocates have expressed strong opposition to the pipeline, citing potential threats to water quality, marine ecosystems, and the state’s climate goals. The DEC acknowledged that the project is inconsistent with New York’s emissions requirements but justified the approval based on a “reliability need” for the gas system downstate.
Economically, the pipeline is projected to cost upwards of $2 billion, with National Grid customers in New York City and Long Island potentially facing an additional $7.50 per month on their gas bills.
Political Context
The approval follows discussions between Governor Kathy Hochul and former President Trump, during which the president urged the state to reconsider its stance on the pipeline. Governor Hochul stated that the decision was based on an impartial review by the DEC, emphasizing the need to ensure energy reliability and affordability for New Yorkers.
Next Steps
While New York has approved the pipeline, the project still requires approval from New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection. The pipeline’s developer, Williams Companies, has withdrawn its application for a second, larger pipeline known as the Constitution, but plans to resubmit it in the future.
Background
The NESE pipeline has been a contentious issue in New York for several years. Previous applications were denied by the DEC due to environmental concerns. The recent approval represents a significant policy shift, balancing environmental considerations with the state’s energy needs.
FAQ
What is the NESE pipeline?
The NESE pipeline is a proposed natural gas pipeline designed to transport gas from Pennsylvania through New Jersey into New York Harbor, aiming to enhance fuel supplies for New York City and Long Island.
Why was the pipeline previously rejected?
The pipeline was previously rejected by New York’s Department of Environmental Conservation due to environmental concerns, including potential threats to water quality and marine ecosystems.
What are the economic implications of the pipeline?
The pipeline is projected to cost over $2 billion, with National Grid customers in New York City and Long Island potentially facing an additional $7.50 per month on their gas bills.
What is the political context of the approval?
The approval follows discussions between Governor Kathy Hochul and former President Donald Trump, during which the president urged the state to reconsider its stance on the pipeline. Governor Hochul stated that the decision was based on an impartial review by the DEC, emphasizing the need to ensure energy reliability and affordability for New Yorkers.
What are the next steps for the pipeline project?
The pipeline still requires approval from New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection. The developer, Williams Companies, has withdrawn its application for a second, larger pipeline known as the Constitution but plans to resubmit it in the future.
Key Features of the NESE Pipeline Approval
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Name | NESE Pipeline |
| Approval Date | November 7, 2025 |
| Approved By | New York Department of Environmental Conservation |
| Project Cost | Over $2 billion |
| Impact on Gas Bills | Additional $7.50 per month for National Grid customers in NYC and Long Island |
| Environmental Concerns | Potential threats to water quality and marine ecosystems |
| Political Context | Approval follows discussions between Governor Hochul and former President Trump |
| Next Steps | Approval from New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection; potential resubmission of Constitution pipeline application |
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