New Fortress working on new Fast LNG terminal offshore Louisiana

U.S. gas-to-power developer New Fortress Energy has filed permit applications to develop and operate a new offshore Fast LNG terminal in the Gulf of Mexico.

O 31 March 2022, New Fortress Energy said in a statement it has filed applications with the U.S. Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Department of Energy. Therefore, it requested all necessary permits and regulatory approvals to construct and operate a new offshore LNG liquefaction terminal off the coast of Louisiana.

The Fast LNG terminal will have a capacity of exporting approximately 145 billion cubic feet of natural gas per year; equivalent to approximately 2.8 million tons per annum (mtpa) of LNG.

Wes Edens, CEO of NFE, said: “This is a big step in the growth of our Fast LNG portfolio, which will include both tolling liquefaction for high creditworthy partners like ENI as well as market volumes from our merchant assets like these. With rapid deployment, this project can play a significant role in supporting our nation’s commitment to our European allies and their energy security as well as support our efforts to reduce emissions and energy poverty around the world.”

The project will be located in federal waters approximately 16 miles off the southeast coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana. NFE completed procurement of all long-lead materials, while modular assembly of equipment is underway.

The project is subject to the receipt of all required permits and approvals. NFE targets beginning operations in the first quarter of 2023.

NFE’s Fast LNG liquefaction design pairs advancements in modular, midsize liquefaction tech with jack-up rigs or similar floating infrastructure. Thus, it is enabling a much lower cost and faster deployment than today’s floating liquefaction vessels.

With the recent announcement by the U.S. and European Commission, LNG production off the coast of Louisiana can support the EU’s goal to end its dependence on Russian fossil fuels. In addition, it can support NFE’s business around the world and reduce GHG emissions.