FERC Approval of CP2 LNG Export Facility in Louisiana Faces Stalled Progress Amidst Export Permit Moratorium
Despite Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s approval of Venture Global’s CP2 LNG export facility and Express Pipeline in Southwest Louisiana, the project remains stalled due to a moratorium on new LNG export permits. The decision, contentious with dissent from Commissioner Allison Clements, awaits resolution on the Department of Energy’s export permit hold.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has approved Venture Global’s CP2 LNG export facility and Express Pipeline in Southwest Louisiana. Despite approval, the project remains stalled due to a moratorium on new LNG export permits imposed by the Department of Energy. The decision was contentious, with outgoing FERC Commissioner Allison Clements dissenting, citing unaddressed environmental and socioeconomic impacts. FERC Chairman Willie Phillips defended the approval, noting the project’s adherence to over 130 conditions related to safety and environmental impact.
The CP2 project now requires an export permit from the Department of Energy, which is currently pausing new approvals. U.S. District Judge James Cain recently held a hearing on whether this moratorium should be lifted, but no ruling has been issued yet.
Congressmen Clay Higgins and Steve Scalise have lauded FERC’s decision, framing it as a boost to economic prosperity and global energy security. Conversely, several environmental groups and community leaders have expressed strong opposition, highlighting the potential adverse effects on local communities and the environment.
