US regulators to speed up LNG project permitting process

The United States regulators have agreed to develop a memorandum of understanding redefining and reducing the permit application review process for the proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) have joined forces on the MoU development.

The MoU will clarify each agency’s respective role in the permitting process for potential LNG projects, and implement procedures into the FERC’s authorization process that will leverage PHMSA’s safety expertise to evaluate potential impact to public safety, the latter said in its statement.

The parties have agreed to sign the memorandum of understanding at a later date.