Pittsburgh: Snapshot of natural gas leaks under city streets
Leaked natural gas – mostly methane – is a powerful contributor to climate change.
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Findings
Our readings indicated an average of about one leak for every two miles we drove within the study area.
Readings are from June 2015 through November 2015 and may not reflect current leaks, due to repairs or other changes.
If you ever smell gas, or have any reason to suspect a problem, experts say to immediately exit the building or area, then call the authorities. For information specific to Peoples Natural Gas Company, LLC, see their safety page.
About Pittsburgh's natural gas infrastructure
- Utility: The Pittsburgh area is serviced by Peoples Natural Gas Company, LLC. Most leaks don't pose an immediate threat to safety or health, but some can. We have shared this data with Peoples Natural Gas Company, LLC.
- Pipe materials: About 29% of pipes operated by Peoples Natural Gas are made from older materials that are relatively more susceptible to leaks than newer pipeline materials.
- Age of pipes: About 46% of the pipes are more than 50 years old.
- Progress: Peoples Natural Gas anticipates replacing older cast iron and unprotected steel pipelines on its system within a 20 year time frame.