Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)

Liquefied natural gas is natural gas that has been super-cooled to a liquid at -260 degrees Fahrenheit. Liquefaction reduces the volume by approximately 600 times, making it more economical to transport between continents in specially designed ships. The liquefied gas is converted back to gas by passing the liquid through vaporizers that warm it (regasification). It is then sent out via pipelines as ordinary natural gas.

These types of projects involve several federal, state and local government agencies, private businesses, community groups and individual Oregonians, many of whom may have concerns about the environment and environmental laws and regulations.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is responsible for deciding where to allow a liquefied natural gas facility or operation. State reviews of permitting applications are completely separate from FERC's decision to approve or reject a proposed liquefied natural gas project.

The Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development determines if liquefied natural gas projects in coastal areas are consistent with Oregon’s Coastal Zone Management Act.

Oregon DEQ typically issues a water quality certification based on section 401 of the Clean Water Act to ensure a liquefied natural gas project will comply with state water quality standards. In addition, DEQ is responsible for drafting, issuing and ensuring compliance with necessary permits and response plans for air emissions, wastewater discharges, waste disposal and spills.

Recently Proposed LNG Projects DEQ has been involved in two LNG projects in Oregon

• Bradwood Landing proposed project
• Jordan Cove proposed project, Coos Bay

Additional Resources

• U.S. Department of Energy: Primer on liquefied natural gas
• Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
• Oregon Department of Energy: Energy Facility Siting
• Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development
• Oregon Coastal Zone Management Program

 

[print version]