Authorization pulled for GDF Suez terminal

Doris Leblond
OGJ Correspondent

PARIS, July 8 -- The Marseille Administrative Court rescinded the authorization granted by regional executive authorities for operation of the GDF Suez methane terminal under construction at Fos-sur-Mer.

The terminal was undergoing final tests before its launch at yearend. Authorization was rescinded after an association for protection of the coastline pointed to the absence of certain documents—including a seismic survey—from the public inquiry process.

GDF Suez said it would appeal. Meanwhile, as the reauthorization process will be lengthy, the company will request provisional authorization since “the project is strategic for southern France,” officials reported.