NextDecade seeks FERC approval for Rio Grande LNG project in Texas, US

US-based liquefied natural gas (LNG) development company NextDecade has filed an application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to secure approval for its proposed Rio Grande LNG project in Texas.

The proposed project is expected to create between 4,000 and 6,000 jobs during the construction period along with more than 200 permanent jobs, and reflect a potential investment up to $20bn.

The company’s application requests for FERC authorisation to site, construct and operate the 27 Mtpa Rio Grande LNG export facility near Brownsville and the 137-mile Rio Bravo pipeline system, which will provide the facility with its feed gas.

NextDecade CEO Kathleen Eisbrenner said: "After a productive pre-filing with the FERC and extensive consultation and cooperation with the reviewing agencies and local communities, we are proud to have achieved this major accomplishment.

"Despite recent low oil and gas prices, we have found robust appetite for US LNG on a long-term basis worldwide.

"This interest reaffirms the price competitiveness of US LNG for customers looking to diversify their gas supply on a global level."

In November 2015, NextDecade announced the signing of agreements for 14 Mtpa of LNG with customers across Asia and Europe, and the number has since increased to 26 Mtpa.

The company aims to acquire FERC authorisation by the end of the first quarter of 2017.

LNG exports from Rio Grande LNG are slated to commence by the end of 2020.

NextDecade development and regulatory affairs senior vice president Shaun Davison said: "Since well before our initial application was filed with the FERC in April 2015, we have been working tirelessly to develop an industry-leading project with the utmost care and attention to safety, respecting the people, preserving the environment and caring for the Rio Grande Valley’s way of life."

Rio Grande LNG project has been proposed for a 1,000-acre industrial site on the Port of Brownsville and includes the Rio Bravo Pipeline.

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Image: Aerial view of proposed Rio Grande LNG project in Texas, US. Photo: courtesy of Rio Grande LNG, LLC.