FERC proposes easing approvals for gas pipeline and LNG projects

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission: The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is an independent U.S. federal agency responsible for regulating the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas, and oil, as well as overseeing the permitting of certain energy infrastructure projects under the Natural Gas Act. It reviews applications for pipelines, LNG facilities, and related developments while balancing market needs, safety, and environmental considerations. In this news, FERC has proposed streamlined approval processes, including blanket authorizations and adjusted environmental review procedures, specifically to accelerate gas pipeline and LNG project development. Regulatory Reform: FERC is advancing a tiered blanket authorization framework for LNG facilities modeled on its existing pipeline certificate program, allowing certain activities to proceed without case-specific orders. Environmental Review: FERC has proposed updating its approach to air quality assessments in project reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act to reduce duplicative analysis and delays. Energy Infrastructure: The proposals aim to address infrastructure bottlenecks for natural gas projects while preserving safety and environmental protections, according to FERC leadership.