DOE permits LNG exports to non-FTA countries from Freeport terminal

The US Department of Energy authorized LNG exports to countries not having a free-trade agreement with the US from Freeport LNG Expansion LP and FLNG Liquefaction LLC’s Quintana Island terminal and liquefaction plant in Texas.

DOE ruled such exports would be in the national interest in two separate orders. Its Nov. 14 decision came after the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission authorized second phase liquefaction and modernization projects at the installation in a July 30 order. The Freeport LNG group’s application was evaluated after it completed a review for the installation under the National Environmental Policy Act.

DOE’s order, which it issued through its Fossil Energy Office, will allow Freeport LNG to export up to the equivalent of 1.4 bcfd of natural gas for as many as 20 years.

US Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alas.), who is the Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s ranking minority member, applauded the announcement, and said it reflect US Sec. of Energy Ernest G. Moniz’s efforts to expedite DOE’s LNG export authorization reviews.

“Going into the next Congress, I look forward to working with the secretary and my colleagues on the committee to provide even greater certainty to DOE’s LNG export application process so that our nation can act before this narrow window of opportunity closes,” Murkowski said.

Contact Nick Snow at [email protected].