Key facts
- The U.S. Maritime Administration has licensed Delfin Midstream to build a floating LNG export terminal.
- The terminal will be located in federal waters off the Louisiana coast.
- The project is estimated to cost $5 billion.
- The terminal aims to leverage existing offshore pipelines.
- First exports are targeted between 2029 and 2030.
- Environmental concerns have been raised regarding the project.
The U.S. Maritime Administration has granted a license to Delfin Midstream for the construction of a significant liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal. This terminal will be a floating facility, situated in federal waters approximately 10 miles off the coast of Louisiana. The estimated cost for this ambitious project is $5 billion.
The Delfin LNG project intends to capitalize on the infrastructure of existing offshore pipelines, thereby reducing the need for new pipeline construction. This strategic approach is expected to streamline the development process and potentially lower costs. The company is targeting the commencement of its first LNG exports to occur within the timeframe of 2029 to 2030.
Despite the project's advancement, it faces scrutiny and concerns from environmental groups. These groups have raised objections related to the potential environmental impact of such a large-scale offshore energy infrastructure project. The approval signifies a step forward for LNG export capacity in the United States, leveraging the Gulf Coast's established energy sector.