Due to the project’s offshore location, the environmental review of Delfin was conducted by the Maritime Administration (MARAD) and the US Coast Guard.
The authorisation has been given to Delfin LNG to export about 1.8 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d). Development of the project will include the construction of a floating liquefaction and storage vessels.
Due rapid increase in natural gas production, the US is now transitioning into a net exporter of natural gas. The department has authorised a total 21 Bcf/d of natural gas exports to non-free trade agreement (non-FTA) countries from planned facilities in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Georgia, Maryland and now in the Gulf of Mexico with Delfin.
The department stated that the shale reserves in the US have generated significant economic growth and jobs. Use of LNG is also being preferred as a clean source of energy, which can help in reducing its carbon emissions.
DOE says that it is eager to bring this clean burning fuel and its benefits to its partners across the world.
US Secretary of Energy Rick Perry said: “I am pleased that with this authorization the Administration can continue to strengthen the United States as a dominant energy force with further exports of our abundant amounts of natural gas.
“Investing in American natural gas not only helps our economy and our jobs, but also helps our allies maintain their energy security. This represents a true win-win for everyone involved.”
