Driftwood LNG Pipeline, a subsidiary of Tellurian, is seeking approval from the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to construct and operate an LNG export facility in the US.
Estimated to cost $13bn-$16bn, the Driftwood LNG export facility near Lake Charles, Louisiana will have approximately 26 million tons per annum (mtpa) capacity.
The firm is also seeking approval for a 96-mile pipeline connecting the facility to interstate pipelines. The feed gas pipeline will have capacity to deliver an annual average of 4 bcf/d of natural gas to the facility.
Tellurian plans to commence construction of the Driftwood LNG project in 2018 with first LNG production scheduled in 2022.
Tellurian president and CEO Meg Gentle said: "Throughout the pre-filing phase, the representatives at FERC, the Department of Energy and the US Coast Guard have been well-organized, thorough, and proficient in ensuring that Driftwood LNG is designed and permitted with a priority on safety, reliability, and efficiency.
“We look forward to continuing to work with FERC and other agencies on a timely approval process and beginning construction in 2018."
In addition to creating approximately 6,400 workers during the construction phase, the Driftwood LNG project will create nearly 400 new permanent jobs upon fully operational.
Tellurian plans to make a final investment decision for the project upon securing regulatory approval in mid-2018.
The LNG export facility will comprise five LNG plants, three 235,000m3 full containment LNG storage tanks, three marine loading berths designed to accommodate LNG ships up to 216,000m3 and refrigeration compressors driven by GE aero derivative natural gas turbines.