About 1.5 million of CNG's 1.8 million customers will soon be able to choose their own suppliers of natural gas. Homeowners served by The Peoples Natural Gas Company in western Pennsylvania began choosing suppliers in April, with delivery beginning June 1. A similar program will begin in Ohio for customers of The East Ohio Gas Company after regulatory approval is received. We've moved beyond pilot programs and are opening entire distribution systems to competition. CNGs retail marketing unit has already signed up more than 30,000 natural gas customers in western Pennsylvania.
Customers can sign up for one, two or four years.
Increased international expansion, using CNG's 30 percent investment in two Australian natural gas pipelines as a base for further projects. Improvements in its natural gas pipeline and storage system to help satisfy increased demand in the Northeast. Mr. Davidson said CNG will continue to stress efficiency, cost controls and improved information systems. The company is currently consolidating administrative functions and standardizing financial reporting systems. Shareholders approved the appointment of Price Waterhouse as independent accountants and a new stock incentive plan for directors, executives and key employees that would replace several existing plans.