The Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities order finding that it has the authority to approve contracts entered into by electric distribution companies to secure dedicated natural gas pipeline transportation capacity is an important step in ensuring that electric generators have reliable access to the fuel needed to generate electricity within the ISO-NE transmission grid. By requiring that such contracts be subject to an open and transparent procurement process in order to win approval, the DPU's order should also benefit consumers, as interstate pipeline companies serving the region compete to provide natural gas to electric generators across New England at the lowest cost.