The Permitting Process & Public Participation - Federal Agencies
Under the Natural Gas Act, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has authority to approve or deny applications related to LNG terminal facilities on land or in State waters, such as the Jordan Cove Energy Project. These applications are the subject of stringent review and approval processes. While the FERC is the lead agency responsible for the review of LNG import terminal permit applications, they do so in conjunction with other state and federal agencies, many of whom are responsible for the issuance of other permits related to the LNG terminal activities.
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Federal Agencies
Numerous federal agencies have a responsibility for oversight of LNG projects. The agencies and their primary roles are outlined below:
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)
Approves the construction and operation of LNG importation terminals
Acts as the lead agency in the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Jordan Cove Energy Project
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Grants approval for the importation of natural gas
Department of Transportation - Maritime Administration (MARAD)
Reviews security plans for cargo movements
U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)
Approves operating plan for vessel movements from international waters to the ship berth
Implements security plan
Conducts vessel escorts as deemed appropriate
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACOE)
Approves LNG unloading facilities constructed on navigable waterways
Approves dredging plans
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Establishes regulatory standards for water discharge
Establishes air quality standards
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Approves construction of permanent structures within three miles of an airport that may have an impact on navigable air space (e.g., tank height)
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
Provides biological opinion on species of wildlife and plants that are federally listed as threatened or endangered
U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)
Ensures that new LNG facilities meet standards governing siting, design, installation, personnel qualifications and training
National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries)
Provides biological opinion on species of wildlife and plants that are federally listed as threatened or endangered, and on managed fisheries
