Liquefied Natural Gas Projects In Germany: The LNG Acceleration Act

Set against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine and the existing reliance on coal, oil, gas and uranium from Russian production, further expansion and substantial investment in renewable energies is absolutely imperative. Nevertheless, fossil fuels - especially natural gas - are indispensable for a secure energy supply for a transitional period. Germany is committed to reducing its dependence on Russian energy sources as quickly as possible and finding alternative ways to secure its energy supply. The wider public and the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) are increasingly focussing on liquefied natural gas (LNG) as an energy option. On 19 May 2022, the Bundestag passed the LNG Acceleration Act (LNGG), which is intended to simplify the licensing procedures for liquefied natural gas terminals and associated facilities and the procurement law for LNG projects. Following approval by the Bundesrat on 20 May 2022, the Act came into force on 1 June