The permitting process for LNG facilities takes about 18 months and is led by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). Rigorous siting, construction and operating standards must be met before the FERC, U.S. Coast Guard and other regulatory agencies will issue the necessary permits to build and operate an LNG facility. The permitting process requires detailed engineering, environmental and safety studies, economic and community impact assessments and provides multiple opportunities for public input.

The Golden Pass LNG project initiated the FERC's NEPA pre-filing process in November 2003. In July/August 2004, the project filed formal applications for the terminal and pipeline system with FERC. The application included required Resource Reports, which included engineering, environmental, safety and other studies. The FERC held scoping meetings in Sabine Pass, Texas, and Starks, Louisiana, in October 2004 to solicit input from the public as the agency writes its Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS). The staff of the FERC issued the DEIS on March 3, 2005. The FERC held public meetings in Sabine Pass, Texas and Starks, Louisiana in March 2005 to solicit input from the public on the DEIS. The staff of the FERC issued the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the project on June 3, 2005. On July 6, 2005, the FERC approved the Golden Pass LNG project and issued the "Order Granting Authorization Under Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act and Issuing Certificates."

To view the FERC applications for the Golden Pass LNG project, follow the steps below:

1. Select the following link: http://ferris.ferc.gov/idmws/docket_search.asp
2. Enter Docket Number: CP04-386
3. Enter Sub Docket (List): 000
4. Select "Submit"