What did the U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals decide regarding the NESE pipeline’s New Jersey water permit, and why?

The U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals vacated the Water Quality Certification issued by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) for Williams’ Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) pipeline and remanded the case back to NJDEP; the court granted petitions filed by environmental groups who argued that NJDEP unjustifiably approved the certification after having originally denied it in 2019 for failure to demonstrate compliance with state water quality standards.

What are the key environmental concerns raised by opponents about the NESE pipeline’s underwater segment in Raritan Bay?

Environmental groups contend that the underwater segment of the NESE pipeline would require dredging the Raritan Bay floor, which would stir up sediment containing toxic contaminants such as mercury and PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls), posing risks to both human health and marine habitats.

US Court Vacates Key NJ Permit for Williams NESE Gas Pipeline

Sep 9, 2026

The U.S. Third Circuit Court vacated a key New Jersey water permit for Williams Cos' NESE natural gas pipeline due to environmental concerns over sediment contamination. The $1 billion project aims to transport 0.4 billion cubic feet of gas daily from Pennsylvania to New York.

reuters

2026-05-19

Williams CEO Predicts Natural Gas Demand Surge from AI Power Needs

2026-06-28

Williams Said to Near $5.5 Billion Deal for Momentum Midstream

2026-07-13

Blackstone Leads $5 Billion Stake in Williams Power Plants

2026-09-09

US Court Vacates Key NJ Permit for Williams NESE Gas Pipeline

US Court Vacates Key NJ Permit for Williams NESE Gas Pipeline

FAQ