Puget Sound Energy will have to pay at least $1.5 million for last year's natural gas explosion in Seattle's Greenwood neighborhood.
In the settlement announced Monday by the Utilities and Transportation Commission, PSE could face $1.25 million extra in charges if it fails to inspect several other gas pipelines by a set deadline.
“$2.75 million is the highest penalty the commission has imposed for a violation of pipeline safety regulations and is among the highest penalties the commission has ever imposed," the commission said in a statement. "The penalty recognizes the severity of the violations and the resulting harm, as well as the company’s acceptance of responsibility, cooperation, and agreement to take appropriate steps to minimize the possibility of future violations."
The commission is made up of three members.