FERC Order Authorizing Commonwealth LNG Project Highlights Commission Divides

On November 17, 2022, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission authorized Commonwealth LNG LLC's (Commonwealth) application under Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act (NGA) to site, construct, and develop a natural gas liquefaction and export facility in Cameron Parish, Louisiana (the Project). The Commission's November 17, 2022 order authorizing the Project (November 17 Order)¹ reflects a Commission largely in agreement as to the scope – and limitations – of its authority under Section 3 of the NGA. However, the multiple concurrences to the November 17 Order highlight divergent Commissioner views regarding the need for additional investment in LNG infrastructure in the United States and the impacts of that infrastructure on environmental justice communities and the environment.