On February 9, 2000, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) announced policy changes further deregulating the U.S. interstate natural-gas pipeline system. Building on the framework of Order 636, the update temporarily lifted price ceilings on secondary-market trades of short-term pipeline capacity, allowing shippers greater flexibility in buying and selling transportation rights.
The move reshaped the natural-gas market, encouraging more active trading of pipeline capacity and improving efficiency in gas delivery across states. Analysts noted that the change also increased competition among pipeline operators and helped downstream customers access gas at market-driven rates.
This deregulation marked a significant step in modernizing U.S. energy infrastructure, demonstrating the government's willingness to adapt regulations to evolving market conditions while balancing reliability and cost for consumers.
