FERC denies rehearing on Veresen’s Jordan Cove LNG export project

The U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission rejected a rehearing for Veresen Inc.’s multibillion-dollar proposal to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal in Oregon.

The FERC has earlier this year denied a permit to two Veresen units to construct, own and operate the 6 mtpa Jordan Cove LNG plant and an associated 232-mile pipeline.

Jordan Cove Energy Project and Pacific Connector Gas Pipeline, both units of Veresen, have filed a request for rehearing on the permit in April.

In its decision to deny the rehearing, the FERC said that the March 11 order “properly denied the application and that it would not reopen the record and consider evidence filed subsequent to the initial decision, as the request for rehearing did not demonstrate the existence of extraordinary circumstances.”

The FERC reiterated that its denial is without prejudice to the applicants submitting a new application should the companies show a market need for these services in the future.

“Veresen remains committed to this important energy infrastructure project,” Don Althoff, CEO of Veresen said in a statement.

“We are very disappointed by FERC’s decision, especially in light of the significant progress that has been made in demonstrating market support for the project and the strong showing of public support for the project. We continue to firmly believe this project will provide significant economic benefit to Oregon, while ensuring responsible environmental stewardship and stakeholder engagement.”

Veresen said in the statement that the Calgary-based company will review all of its options in light of the FERC denial, including appeal or the submission of a new application with FERC.

To remind, Veresen recently announced it will continue to advance the LNG export project and associated pipeline with plans to spend about US$30 million next year on the development.

LNG World News Staff