Court Forces FERC to Double-Check LNG Air Pollution Risks
Published Date: 5/22/2025
Notice
Summary
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has released a final report updating the environmental review for the Commonwealth LNG Project in Louisiana. This update answers a court’s concerns about air pollution, especially nitrogen dioxide, from the project. The project, which involves building a natural gas liquefaction and export facility, is moving forward but now with a clearer look at its environmental impact.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
FERC SEIS Addresses Nitrogen Dioxide Concern
FERC prepared a final supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) that specifically responds to the U.S. Court of Appeals' July 16, 2024 remand about the Commonwealth LNG Project's cumulative nitrogen dioxide emissions. The SEIS is part of FERC’s further proceedings on the Project (dockets CP19-502-000 and CP19-502-001) and follows the Commission's earlier actions including the September 9, 2022 final EIS, the November 17, 2022 authorization order, and the June 9, 2023 rehearing order.
Final SEIS Is Only Available Electronically
The final supplemental EIS is available only in electronic format on FERC's website and eLibrary (docket CP19-502); FERC mailed a Notice of Availability to federal, state, and local officials, Tribes, environmental and public interest groups, potentially affected landowners, newspapers, and libraries. FERC provided contact points for assistance (FERC Online Support, OPP phone numbers and email) and an eSubscription service to receive notices and documents.
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