Natural gas pipeline constraints measure the capacity limits of pipelines delivering gas to power generators. During cold weather or other high-demand periods, limited pipeline capacity forces gas-fired generators to compete with heating demand, driving gas and electricity prices higher. Winter 2025 saw elevated prices in New England as moderate cold weather caused pipeline bottlenecks and supply shortages. This indicator gauges stress on gas infrastructure and signals potential electricity price spikes.
Past 3 months | Next 3 months forecast
Past 3 months | Next 3 months forecast
Pipeline constraints are expected to remain high or increase into the coming winter as heating demand surges and no major pipeline expansions come online. Pressure should ease by mid-2026 when temperatures moderate and demand softens, but volatility in natural gas and electricity prices may persist.
Electric Rate Impact: ▲ Electric rates up