New York state’s utility regulator approved a long-term gas plan floated by National Grid that would expand natural gas infrastructure in New York City. The utility said its plan is based on the region’s appetite for natural gas and includes a new pipeline expansion the state quashed once already. National Grid’s report cites extreme weather as the main justification for investment in liquefied natural gas infrastructure. The liquefied natural gas supply was critical in keeping adequate flow to customers, according to the plan. This story has been updated to reflect comments from National Grid.