It is possible, for instance, to set standards for indoor air quality that are so stringent that they virtually rule out the possibility of natural gas usage in new, tightly constructed houses. Given the potential significant national benefits of the accelerated projection, it is assumed that the federal government will promote and support increased use of natural gas. This could include, for instance, tax incentives to extend gas service to areas not currently served. The potential of new technologies will be fully recognized in regulations that govern the natural gas industry . As gas industry technologies and practices evolve over time, it is assumed that regulations governing the industry will evolve as well.
Plastic pipe provides a good example.
Today's plastic pipe can safely operate at higher pressures than older pipe can withstand. If safety regulations did not recognize this advance, the market would be dampened for some forms of gas-based distributed electricity generation systems that require high gas pressures. In addition, the regulatory arena appears to be moving toward creating more flexible, less prescriptive regulations. It is assumed that this movement will prove to be effective in providing safe and reliable service and that it will continue. Access to the natural gas resource base will not be unduly restricted .