CEAA releases draft report on Pacific NorthWest LNG project

The Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency has on Wednesday issued a draft environmental assessment on the Petronas-led Pacific NorthWest LNG project in British Columbia.

According to CEAA, the $11.4 billion LNG export terminal planned for Lelu Island in the Port of Prince Rupert would likely harm harbour porpoises and contribute to a large increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

However, after evaluating all components of the LNG project, the Agency concludes that the project is “not likely to cause significant adverse environmental effects taking into account the implementation of the key mitigation measures,” the assessment said.

CEAA, which started its review into Pacific NorthWest LNG in April 2013, said a new 30-day public comment period will wrap up March 11.

Any conditions set by federal Environment Minister Catherine McKenna will become legally binding. She is expected to make her decision on or about March 22.

The proposed PNW LNG facility will comprise an initial development of two LNG trains of approximately 6 million tonnes per annum each, and a subsequent development of a third train of approximately 6 mtpa.

Petronas, Sinopec, JAPEX, Indian Oil Corporation and PetroleumBRUNEI are all shareholders in Pacific NorthWest LNG and the associated natural gas supply.