PROJECT

Pipeline Replacement Program

The SoCalGas Distribution Integrity Management Program (DIMP) and Distribution Risk Evaluation and Monitoring Systems (DREAMS) initiatives aid in efficiently replacing mains and service pipes throughout the utility’s distribution system, managing risk of leaks and supporting regulatory compliance.

We worked with the utility to develop tools to effectively manage the planning and evaluation process, as well as outcomes. Our planners, sketchers and clerks also helped the utility’s in-house team execute replacement of main pipelines and service pipelines throughout the distribution system. Building on what SoCalGas had started, we developed design guidelines and process checklists to improve efficiency and minimize changes as the overall program evolved.

Our team implemented specific screening tools and processes to select candidates qualified to pass SoCalGas training tests for this scope of work and developed design guidelines and process checklists to help define scope and minimize changes as the program evolved. We also helped SoCalGas shift to isolated service replacements from its initial priority of full main replacements.

This program was designed to look at 17,000 miles of non-state-of-the-art (NSOA) pipeline that may eventually need replacement in the utility’s network. In 2023 and 2024 alone, our team helped the utility replace approximately 180 miles of pipeline.

Client

Southern California Gas (SoCalGas)

Location

California

Region

West

Services

Pipeline Services

Gas Transmission & Distribution

Permitting

Stakeholder Management

Industry

Oil, Gas & Chemicals

Executing Projects Effectively

Planners began by completing background research on substructures, permitting issues, paving moratoriums and more. They evaluated issues that could impede planning or constructability. Field visits, GIS, service histories, Google Earth and other tools painted the picture of what was in the field and what direction the planning needed to take. Planners then followed applicable SoCalGas standards and procedures along with state or local requirements.

Once the facts were known, planners created a detailed project design in the SoCalGas SAP system, working with SoCalGas resources to resolve issues related to right-of-way, cathodic protection, leakage history, and environmental and California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) 955.5 compliance. This culminated in a completed design, permits and an approved work package that was issued to SoCalGas maintenance supervisors for field execution. Contract construction crews then performed the installations under the direction of SoCalGas inspectors and supervisors.