Regulatory Compliance

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is the lead agency that has final approval on all technical aspects of onshore LNG import terminals and related pipeline facilities. Construction and operation of the LNG Clean Energy Project cannot move forward until all required FERC and state approvals are in place. In addition to the FERC regulatory requirements, other Federal and State agencies involved in the review and permitting process include:

• U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) – determines the suitability of the waterway to transport LNG safely; also establishes operational safety criteria for the transit of the LNG carrier into and out of the port.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) – advises on coastal and wetlands impacts and other water quality matters.
• U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) – prescribes safety standards.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – establishes air, water and other emission standards.
• U.S. Fish & Wildlife (USFWS) – safeguards endangered species and habitat protection.
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) – contributes to the protection of any nearby marine sanctuaries.
• Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) – regulates air quality,
  wastewater, stormwater, and wetland dredge and fill.
• Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) – state dredge and fill permits and coastal zone consistency determination.

Once in operation, appropriate oversight agencies will conduct inspections and audits of the facility, equipment and operation.