LNG Development Company, LLC; Application for Long-Term Authorization To Export Liquefied Natural Gas Produced From Canadian and Domestic Natural Gas Resources to Non-Free Trade Agreement Countries for a 25-Year Period, 55197-55199 [2012-22088]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 174 / Friday, September 7, 2012 / Notices Suite 700, Washington, DC 20004–2901, (800) 788–4016. This is a toll-free number. Dated: September 4, 2012. Peter S. Winokur, Chairman. [FR Doc. 2012–22187 Filed 9–5–12; 4:15 pm] BILLING CODE 3670–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Agency Information Collection Extension U.S. Department of Energy. Notice and request for comments. AGENCY: ACTION: The Department of Energy (DOE), pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, intends to extend for three years, an information collection request with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Comments are invited on: (a) Whether the extended collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information shall have practical utility; (b) the accuracy of the agency’s estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; (c) ways to enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and (d) ways to minimize the burden of the collection of information on respondents, including through the use of automated collection techniques or other forms of information technology. DATES: Comments regarding this proposed information collection must be received on or before November 6, 2012. If you anticipate difficulty in submitting comments within that period, contact the person listed below as soon as possible. ADDRESSES: Written comments may be sent to Jacqueline D. Rogers, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Health, Safety and Security, HS–11, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585, by fax at 202– 586–8548, or by email at: jackie.rogers@hq.doe.gov, or information about the collection instruments may be obtained at: https:// www.hss.dow.gov/pra.html. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Requests for additional information or copies of the information collection instrument and instructions should be directed to Jacqueline D. Rogers, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Health, Safety and Security, HS–11, 1000 srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:04 Sep 06, 2012 Jkt 226001 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585, or by fax at 202– 586–8548, or by email at jackie.rogers@hq.doe.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This information collection request contains: (1) OMB Control No.: 1910–5112; (2) Information Collection Request Title: Final Rule: Chronic Beryllium Disease Prevention Program; (3) Type of Review: Renewal; (4) Purpose: This collection provides the Department with the information needed to continue reducing the number of workers currently exposed to beryllium in the course of their work at DOE facilities managed by DOE or its contractors; minimize the levels and potential exposure to beryllium; to provide information to employees, to provide medical surveillance to ensure early detection of disease; and to permit oversight of the programs by DOE management; (5) Annual Estimated Number of Respondents: 4,499 (22 DOE sites and 4,477 workers affected by the rule); (6) Annual Estimated Number of Total Responses: 15,881; (7) Annual Estimated Number of Burden Hours: 25,036; (8) Annual Estimated Reporting and Recordkeeping Cost Burden: $1,293,623; (9) Response Obligation: Mandatory. Statutory Authority: Atomic Energy Act of 1954, 42 U.S.C. 2201, and the Department of Energy Organization Act, 42 U.S.C. 7191 and 7254. Issued in Washington, DC on August 29, 2012. Stephen A. Kirchhoff, Director, Office of Resource Management, Office of Health, Safety and Security. [FR Doc. 2012–22083 Filed 9–6–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY [FE Docket No. 12–77–LNG] LNG Development Company, LLC; Application for Long-Term Authorization To Export Liquefied Natural Gas Produced From Canadian and Domestic Natural Gas Resources to Non-Free Trade Agreement Countries for a 25-Year Period Office of Fossil Energy, DOE. Notice of application. AGENCY: ACTION: The Office of Fossil Energy (FE) of the Department of Energy (DOE) gives notice of receipt of an application (Application) filed on July 16, 2012, by LNG Development Company, LLC (d/b/ a Oregon LNG), requesting long-term, multi-contract authorization to export up to 9.6 million tons per annum (mtpa) SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 55197 of liquefied natural gas (LNG), the equivalent of 456.25 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of natural gas per year or 1.3 Bcf per day (Bcf/d), over a 25-year period, commencing on the earlier of the date of first export or eight years from the date the requested authorization is granted. The LNG would be exported from the proposed LNG terminal to be located in Warrenton, Oregon, in Clatsop county, to any country (1) With which the United States does not have a free trade agreement (FTA) requiring national treatment for trade in natural gas, (2) which has developed or in the future develops the capacity to import LNG via ocean-going carrier, and (3) with which trade is not prohibited by U.S. law or policy. The LNG will be produced from natural gas imported from Canada into the United States, and to a lesser extent, domestically produced natural gas. Oregon LNG is requesting this authorization to export LNG both on its own behalf and as agent for other parties who hold title to the LNG at the point of export. The Application was filed under section 3 of the Natural Gas Act (NGA). Protests, motions to intervene, notices of intervention, and written comments are invited. DATES: Protests, motions to intervene or notices of intervention, as applicable, requests for additional procedures, and written comments are to be filed using procedures detailed in the Public Comment Procedures section no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, November 6, 2012. ADDRESSES: Electronic Filing by email fergas@hq.doe.gov. Regular Mail U.S. Department of Energy (FE–34), Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities, Office of Fossil Energy, P.O. Box 44375, Washington, DC 20026– 4375. Hand Delivery or Private Delivery Services (e.g., FedEx, UPS, etc.) U.S. Department of Energy (FE–34), Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities, Office of Fossil Energy, Forrestal Building, Room 3E–042, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Larine Moore or Marc Talbert, U.S. Department of Energy (FE–34), Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities, Office of Fossil Energy, Forrestal Building, Room 3E–042, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585, (202) 586– 9478; (202) 586–7991. E:\FR\FM\07SEN1.SGM 07SEN1 55198 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 174 / Friday, September 7, 2012 / Notices Edward Myers, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Electricity and Fossil Energy, Forrestal Building, Room 6B–256, 1000 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20585, (202) 586–3397. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES Background Oregon LNG is a Delaware limited liability company with its principal place of business in Warrenton, Oregon, and headquarters in Vancouver, Washington. Oregon LNG states that the Oregon LNG Export Project (Project) is proposed to export primarily Canadian-sourced natural gas imported into the United States and to a lesser extent supplies of natural gas that may be domestically produced. Oregon LNG states the Project will convert Oregon LNG’s pending import receiving terminal and pipeline (Oregon Pipeline) into a bidirectional LNG terminal and pipeline. The Oregon Pipeline is being developed by Oregon LNG’s affiliate, Oregon Pipeline Company, LLC. Oregon LNG states that the Project will interconnect with the multi-legged system of Williams Northwest Pipeline Company, connecting Pacific Northwest demand centers with British Columbian and Rockies supplies. However, Oregon LNG asserts it does not expect that the gas feedstock for the Project will be derived to any significant degree from Rockies supply given that the market modeling commissioned by Oregon LNG demonstrates that Canadian supply is the economically preferred resource for the Project. Oregon LNG states that unlike the multiple pending applications to export domestically produced LNG to non-FTA countries, this Application involves a request for authorization to export LNG produced primarily from Canadian natural gas resources. Oregon LNG further states that in this regard, this Application is akin to applications for authorization to export previously imported LNG, which DOE/FE has expeditiously granted.1 Oregon LNG states that the same rationale applies here. Current Application In the instant application, Oregon LNG seeks long-term, multi-contract authorization to export up to 9.6 mtpa of natural gas produced in Canada, and to a lesser extent, domestically 1 Citing, ConocoPhillips Company, Order Granting Blanket Authorization to Export Previously Imported Liquefied Natural Gas by Vessel, FE Docket No. 11–109–LNG, DOE/FE Order No. 3038 (November 22, 2011). VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:04 Sep 06, 2012 Jkt 226001 produced natural gas, as LNG (the equivalent of 456.25 Bcf per year, or 1.3 Bcf/d of natural gas), for a period of 25 years beginning on the earlier of the date of first export or eight years from the date the authorization is granted by DOE/FE. Oregon LNG requests that such long-term authorization provide for export from its LNG terminal to be located in Warrenton, Oregon, in Clatsop County, to any country with which the United States does not have an FTA requiring national treatment for trade in natural gas, which has developed or in the future develops the capacity to import LNG via ocean-going carrier, and with which trade is not prohibited by U.S. law or policy. Oregon LNG requests authorization to export LNG acting on its own behalf or as agent for others. At present, Oregon LNG does not contemplate entering into any long-term gas supply or long-term export contracts in conjunction with the LNG export authorization requested herein. Rather, Oregon LNG will enter into capacity use arrangements with potential Project participants or thirdparty customers. Accordingly, Oregon LNG is not submitting transactionspecific information such as long-term supply agreements and long-term export agreements, as required by Section 590.202(b) of the DOE regulations, at this time. Instead, Oregon LNG requests that DOE/FE adhere to the precedent set forth in Sabine Pass Liquefaction, LLC, DOE/FE Order No. 2961, at 41, where DOE/FE found that given the state of development for the proposed export project, Sabine Pass would be permitted to submit transaction-specific information when the contracts reflecting such information were executed. Public Interest Considerations Oregon LNG states that the Project has been proposed due to the improved outlook for North American natural gas production, owing to drilling productivity gains that enabled rapid growth in supplies from unconventional, and particularly shale, gas-bearing formations in the United States and Canada. Oregon LNG states that improvements in drilling and extraction technologies have coincided with rapid diffusion in the natural gas industry’s understanding of the unconventional resource base and best practices in drilling and resource development. Oregon LNG states that these changes have rendered obsolete once prominent fears of declining future domestic natural gas production. According to Oregon LNG, the Project offers various benefits to the public, including the much needed expansion PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 of market scope and access for North American natural gas producers at times when neither U.S. nor Canadian gas prices support continued production. Oregon LNG states that the North American supply glut has depressed domestic natural gas prices to historic lows (below $2.00 per MMbtu) not experienced since 1999.2 Oregon LNG further states that analysts have expressed concern that the Canadian gas storage levels may reach capacity in June 2012, potentially affecting U.S. natural gas prices as Canadian producers attempt to move surplus gas across the border to the U.S. Oregon LNG states that the influx of labor needed to complete the Project will have a major positive impact on the region’s economy. In its letter of support, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America points out that regional unemployment in the construction sector has hovered around 17 percent, which is twice the rate of general unemployment. Oregon LNG states that from 2014 unitl the anticipated completion date in 2018, the construction phase will create an average of 3,054 direct-employment, new construction jobs for the Project. Oregon LNG states that the economic impact of a construction project goes well beyond the direct costs of construction. If the Project requires sheet metal from a local producer, for example, an indirect impact will be felt by the hiring of new workers at the manufacturer. The regional indirect impact of the construction phase of the Project is estimated at $2.79 billion and the average, indirect employment impact spread over the anticipated 5year period involving construction efforts is estimated at 2,579 jobs. Oregon LNG states that its exports will result in a net improvement in the balance of trade for the U.S. even after deducting gas imports from Canada. If approved, the export authorization is projected to reduce the U.S. trade deficit by $4.5 billion per year over a 25-year period for an estimated total of $112.5 billion of net deficit reduction over the life of the Project. Further details can be found in the Application, which has been posted at https://www.fe.doe.gov/programs/ gasregulation/. Environmental Impact Oregon LNG states that the potential environment impacts of the Project will be reviewed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) under 2 Citing, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), U.S. Natural Gas Wellhead Price, https:// www.eia.gov/dnav/ng/his/n9190us3m.htm. E:\FR\FM\07SEN1.SGM 07SEN1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 174 / Friday, September 7, 2012 / Notices the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Oregon LNG and Oregon Pipeline Company requested authorization to commence FERC’s mandatory NEPA pre-filing process for the Project on July 3, 2012, in FERC Docket No. PF12–18–000. Oregon LNG and Oregon Pipeline Company anticipate filing a formal application with FERC pursuant to Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act (NGA) no later than the First Quarter of 2013. Accordingly, Oregon LNG requests that, pursuant to Section 590.402 of the DOE Regulations, DOE/FE issue a conditional order authorizing the export of LNG as requested in the Application, conditioned on completion of the environmental review of the Export Project by FERC. srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with NOTICES DOE/FE Evaluation The Application will be reviewed pursuant to section 3 of the NGA, as amended, and the authority contained in DOE Delegation Order No. 00– 002.00L (April 29, 2011) and DOE Redelegation Order No. 00–002.04E (April 29, 2011). In reviewing this LNG export Application, DOE will consider any issues required by law or policy. To the extent determined to be relevant or appropriate, these issues will include the impact of LNG exports associated with this Application, and the cumulative impact of any other application(s) previously approved, on domestic need for the gas proposed for export, adequacy of domestic natural gas supply, U.S. energy security, and any other issues, including the impact on the U.S. economy (GDP), consumers, and industry, job creation, U.S. balance of trade, international considerations, and whether the arrangement is consistent with DOE’s policy of promoting competition in the marketplace by allowing commercial parties to freely negotiate their own trade arrangements. Parties that may oppose this Application should comment in their responses on these issues, as well as any other issues deemed relevant to the Application. NEPA requires DOE to give appropriate consideration to the environmental effects of its proposed decisions. No final decision will be issued in this proceeding until DOE has met its environmental responsibilities. Due to the complexity of the issues raised by the Applicants, interested persons will be provided 60 days from the date of publication of this Notice in which to submit comments, protests, motions to intervene, notices of intervention, or motions for additional procedures. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:04 Sep 06, 2012 Jkt 226001 Public Comment Procedures In response to this notice, any person may file a protest, comments, or a motion to intervene or notice of intervention, as applicable. Any person wishing to become a party to the proceeding must file a motion to intervene or notice of intervention, as applicable. The filing of comments or a protest with respect to the Application will not serve to make the commenter or protestant a party to the proceeding, although protests and comments received from persons who are not parties will be considered in determining the appropriate action to be taken on the Application. All protests, comments, motions to intervene or notices of intervention must meet the requirements specified by the regulations in 10 CFR part 590. Filings may be submitted using one of the following methods: (1) emailing the filing to fergas@hq.doe.gov with FE Docket No. 12–77–LNG in the title line; (2) mailing an original and three paper copies of the filing to the Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities at the address listed in ADDRESSES. The filing must include a reference to FE Docket No. 12–77–LNG; or (3) hand delivering an original and three paper copies of the filing to the Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities at the address listed in ADDRESSES. The filing must include a reference to FE Docket No. 12–77–LNG. A decisional record on the Application will be developed through responses to this notice by parties, including the parties’ written comments and replies thereto. Additional procedures will be used as necessary to achieve a complete understanding of the facts and issues. A party seeking intervention may request that additional procedures be provided, such as additional written comments, an oral presentation, a conference, or trial-type hearing. Any request to file additional written comments should explain why they are necessary. Any request for an oral presentation should identify the substantial question of fact, law, or policy at issue, show that it is material and relevant to a decision in the proceeding, and demonstrate why an oral presentation is needed. Any request for a conference should demonstrate why the conference would materially advance the proceeding. Any request for a trial-type hearing must show that there are factual issues genuinely in dispute that are relevant and material to a decision and that a trial-type hearing is necessary for a full and true disclosure of the facts. PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 55199 If an additional procedure is scheduled, notice will be provided to all parties. If no party requests additional procedures, a final Opinion and Order may be issued based on the official record, including the Application and responses filed by parties pursuant to this notice, in accordance with 10 CFR 590.316. The Application filed by Oregon LNG is available for inspection and copying in the Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities docket room, Room 3E–042, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585. The docket room is open between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Application and any filed protests, motions to intervene or notice of interventions, and comments will also be available electronically by going to the following DOE/FE Web address: https://www.fe.doe.gov/programs/ gasregulation/. Issued in Washington, DC, on August 31, 2012. John A. Anderson, Manager, Natural Gas Regulatory Activities, Office of Oil and Gas Global Security and Supply, Office of Fossil Energy. [FR Doc. 2012–22088 Filed 9–6–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Radiation Detection Technologies, Inc. Office of the General Counsel, Department of Energy. ACTION: Notice of intent to grant exclusive patent license. AGENCY: Notice is hereby given to an intent to grant to Radiation Detection Technologies, Inc., of Manhattan, Kansas, an exclusive license to practice the inventions described in U.S. Patent No. 6,545,281, entitled ‘‘Pocked Surface Neutron Detector’’. The invention is owned by the United States of America, as represented by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). DATES: Written comments or nonexclusive license applications are to be received at the address listed below no later than October 9, 2012. ADDRESSES: Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property, U.S. Department of Energy, 1000 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20585. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John T. Lucas, Office of the Assistant General Counsel for Technology Transfer and Intellectual Property, U.S. Department of Energy, Forrestal Building, Room 6F– SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\07SEN1.SGM 07SEN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 174 (Friday, September 7, 2012)]
[Notices]
[Pages 55197-55199]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-22088]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

[FE Docket No. 12-77-LNG]


LNG Development Company, LLC; Application for Long-Term 
Authorization To Export Liquefied Natural Gas Produced From Canadian 
and Domestic Natural Gas Resources to Non-Free Trade Agreement 
Countries for a 25-Year Period

AGENCY: Office of Fossil Energy, DOE.

ACTION: Notice of application.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The Office of Fossil Energy (FE) of the Department of Energy 
(DOE) gives notice of receipt of an application (Application) filed on 
July 16, 2012, by LNG Development Company, LLC (d/b/a Oregon LNG), 
requesting long-term, multi-contract authorization to export up to 9.6 
million tons per annum (mtpa) of liquefied natural gas (LNG), the 
equivalent of 456.25 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of natural gas per year 
or 1.3 Bcf per day (Bcf/d), over a 25-year period, commencing on the 
earlier of the date of first export or eight years from the date the 
requested authorization is granted. The LNG would be exported from the 
proposed LNG terminal to be located in Warrenton, Oregon, in Clatsop 
county, to any country (1) With which the United States does not have a 
free trade agreement (FTA) requiring national treatment for trade in 
natural gas, (2) which has developed or in the future develops the 
capacity to import LNG via ocean-going carrier, and (3) with which 
trade is not prohibited by U.S. law or policy. The LNG will be produced 
from natural gas imported from Canada into the United States, and to a 
lesser extent, domestically produced natural gas. Oregon LNG is 
requesting this authorization to export LNG both on its own behalf and 
as agent for other parties who hold title to the LNG at the point of 
export. The Application was filed under section 3 of the Natural Gas 
Act (NGA). Protests, motions to intervene, notices of intervention, and 
written comments are invited.

DATES: Protests, motions to intervene or notices of intervention, as 
applicable, requests for additional procedures, and written comments 
are to be filed using procedures detailed in the Public Comment 
Procedures section no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, November 6, 
2012.

ADDRESSES:

Electronic Filing by email

    fergas@hq.doe.gov.

Regular Mail

    U.S. Department of Energy (FE-34), Office of Natural Gas Regulatory 
Activities, Office of Fossil Energy, P.O. Box 44375, Washington, DC 
20026-4375.

Hand Delivery or Private Delivery Services (e.g., FedEx, UPS, etc.)

    U.S. Department of Energy (FE-34), Office of Natural Gas Regulatory 
Activities, Office of Fossil Energy, Forrestal Building, Room 3E-042, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Larine Moore or Marc Talbert, U.S. Department of Energy (FE-34), Office 
of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities, Office of Fossil Energy, 
Forrestal Building, Room 3E-042, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., 
Washington, DC 20585, (202) 586-9478; (202) 586-7991.

[[Page 55198]]

Edward Myers, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the Assistant 
General Counsel for Electricity and Fossil Energy, Forrestal Building, 
Room 6B-256, 1000 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20585, (202) 
586-3397.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    Oregon LNG is a Delaware limited liability company with its 
principal place of business in Warrenton, Oregon, and headquarters in 
Vancouver, Washington.
    Oregon LNG states that the Oregon LNG Export Project (Project) is 
proposed to export primarily Canadian-sourced natural gas imported into 
the United States and to a lesser extent supplies of natural gas that 
may be domestically produced. Oregon LNG states the Project will 
convert Oregon LNG's pending import receiving terminal and pipeline 
(Oregon Pipeline) into a bidirectional LNG terminal and pipeline. The 
Oregon Pipeline is being developed by Oregon LNG's affiliate, Oregon 
Pipeline Company, LLC. Oregon LNG states that the Project will 
interconnect with the multi-legged system of Williams Northwest 
Pipeline Company, connecting Pacific Northwest demand centers with 
British Columbian and Rockies supplies. However, Oregon LNG asserts it 
does not expect that the gas feedstock for the Project will be derived 
to any significant degree from Rockies supply given that the market 
modeling commissioned by Oregon LNG demonstrates that Canadian supply 
is the economically preferred resource for the Project.
    Oregon LNG states that unlike the multiple pending applications to 
export domestically produced LNG to non-FTA countries, this Application 
involves a request for authorization to export LNG produced primarily 
from Canadian natural gas resources. Oregon LNG further states that in 
this regard, this Application is akin to applications for authorization 
to export previously imported LNG, which DOE/FE has expeditiously 
granted.\1\ Oregon LNG states that the same rationale applies here.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ Citing, ConocoPhillips Company, Order Granting Blanket 
Authorization to Export Previously Imported Liquefied Natural Gas by 
Vessel, FE Docket No. 11-109-LNG, DOE/FE Order No. 3038 (November 
22, 2011).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Current Application

    In the instant application, Oregon LNG seeks long-term, multi-
contract authorization to export up to 9.6 mtpa of natural gas produced 
in Canada, and to a lesser extent, domestically produced natural gas, 
as LNG (the equivalent of 456.25 Bcf per year, or 1.3 Bcf/d of natural 
gas), for a period of 25 years beginning on the earlier of the date of 
first export or eight years from the date the authorization is granted 
by DOE/FE. Oregon LNG requests that such long-term authorization 
provide for export from its LNG terminal to be located in Warrenton, 
Oregon, in Clatsop County, to any country with which the United States 
does not have an FTA requiring national treatment for trade in natural 
gas, which has developed or in the future develops the capacity to 
import LNG via ocean-going carrier, and with which trade is not 
prohibited by U.S. law or policy.
    Oregon LNG requests authorization to export LNG acting on its own 
behalf or as agent for others. At present, Oregon LNG does not 
contemplate entering into any long-term gas supply or long-term export 
contracts in conjunction with the LNG export authorization requested 
herein. Rather, Oregon LNG will enter into capacity use arrangements 
with potential Project participants or third-party customers. 
Accordingly, Oregon LNG is not submitting transaction-specific 
information such as long-term supply agreements and long-term export 
agreements, as required by Section 590.202(b) of the DOE regulations, 
at this time. Instead, Oregon LNG requests that DOE/FE adhere to the 
precedent set forth in Sabine Pass Liquefaction, LLC, DOE/FE Order No. 
2961, at 41, where DOE/FE found that given the state of development for 
the proposed export project, Sabine Pass would be permitted to submit 
transaction-specific information when the contracts reflecting such 
information were executed.

Public Interest Considerations

    Oregon LNG states that the Project has been proposed due to the 
improved outlook for North American natural gas production, owing to 
drilling productivity gains that enabled rapid growth in supplies from 
unconventional, and particularly shale, gas-bearing formations in the 
United States and Canada. Oregon LNG states that improvements in 
drilling and extraction technologies have coincided with rapid 
diffusion in the natural gas industry's understanding of the 
unconventional resource base and best practices in drilling and 
resource development. Oregon LNG states that these changes have 
rendered obsolete once prominent fears of declining future domestic 
natural gas production.
    According to Oregon LNG, the Project offers various benefits to the 
public, including the much needed expansion of market scope and access 
for North American natural gas producers at times when neither U.S. nor 
Canadian gas prices support continued production. Oregon LNG states 
that the North American supply glut has depressed domestic natural gas 
prices to historic lows (below $2.00 per MMbtu) not experienced since 
1999.\2\ Oregon LNG further states that analysts have expressed concern 
that the Canadian gas storage levels may reach capacity in June 2012, 
potentially affecting U.S. natural gas prices as Canadian producers 
attempt to move surplus gas across the border to the U.S.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ Citing, U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), U.S. 
Natural Gas Wellhead Price, https://www.eia.gov/dnav/ng/his/n9190us3m.htm.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Oregon LNG states that the influx of labor needed to complete the 
Project will have a major positive impact on the region's economy. In 
its letter of support, the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners 
of America points out that regional unemployment in the construction 
sector has hovered around 17 percent, which is twice the rate of 
general unemployment. Oregon LNG states that from 2014 unitl the 
anticipated completion date in 2018, the construction phase will create 
an average of 3,054 direct-employment, new construction jobs for the 
Project.
    Oregon LNG states that the economic impact of a construction 
project goes well beyond the direct costs of construction. If the 
Project requires sheet metal from a local producer, for example, an 
indirect impact will be felt by the hiring of new workers at the 
manufacturer. The regional indirect impact of the construction phase of 
the Project is estimated at $2.79 billion and the average, indirect 
employment impact spread over the anticipated 5-year period involving 
construction efforts is estimated at 2,579 jobs.
    Oregon LNG states that its exports will result in a net improvement 
in the balance of trade for the U.S. even after deducting gas imports 
from Canada. If approved, the export authorization is projected to 
reduce the U.S. trade deficit by $4.5 billion per year over a 25-year 
period for an estimated total of $112.5 billion of net deficit 
reduction over the life of the Project.
    Further details can be found in the Application, which has been 
posted at https://www.fe.doe.gov/programs/gasregulation/.

Environmental Impact

    Oregon LNG states that the potential environment impacts of the 
Project will be reviewed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 
(FERC) under

[[Page 55199]]

the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Oregon LNG and Oregon 
Pipeline Company requested authorization to commence FERC's mandatory 
NEPA pre-filing process for the Project on July 3, 2012, in FERC Docket 
No. PF12-18-000. Oregon LNG and Oregon Pipeline Company anticipate 
filing a formal application with FERC pursuant to Section 3 of the 
Natural Gas Act (NGA) no later than the First Quarter of 2013. 
Accordingly, Oregon LNG requests that, pursuant to Section 590.402 of 
the DOE Regulations, DOE/FE issue a conditional order authorizing the 
export of LNG as requested in the Application, conditioned on 
completion of the environmental review of the Export Project by FERC.

DOE/FE Evaluation

    The Application will be reviewed pursuant to section 3 of the NGA, 
as amended, and the authority contained in DOE Delegation Order No. 00-
002.00L (April 29, 2011) and DOE Redelegation Order No. 00-002.04E 
(April 29, 2011). In reviewing this LNG export Application, DOE will 
consider any issues required by law or policy. To the extent determined 
to be relevant or appropriate, these issues will include the impact of 
LNG exports associated with this Application, and the cumulative impact 
of any other application(s) previously approved, on domestic need for 
the gas proposed for export, adequacy of domestic natural gas supply, 
U.S. energy security, and any other issues, including the impact on the 
U.S. economy (GDP), consumers, and industry, job creation, U.S. balance 
of trade, international considerations, and whether the arrangement is 
consistent with DOE's policy of promoting competition in the 
marketplace by allowing commercial parties to freely negotiate their 
own trade arrangements. Parties that may oppose this Application should 
comment in their responses on these issues, as well as any other issues 
deemed relevant to the Application.
    NEPA requires DOE to give appropriate consideration to the 
environmental effects of its proposed decisions. No final decision will 
be issued in this proceeding until DOE has met its environmental 
responsibilities.
    Due to the complexity of the issues raised by the Applicants, 
interested persons will be provided 60 days from the date of 
publication of this Notice in which to submit comments, protests, 
motions to intervene, notices of intervention, or motions for 
additional procedures.

Public Comment Procedures

    In response to this notice, any person may file a protest, 
comments, or a motion to intervene or notice of intervention, as 
applicable. Any person wishing to become a party to the proceeding must 
file a motion to intervene or notice of intervention, as applicable. 
The filing of comments or a protest with respect to the Application 
will not serve to make the commenter or protestant a party to the 
proceeding, although protests and comments received from persons who 
are not parties will be considered in determining the appropriate 
action to be taken on the Application. All protests, comments, motions 
to intervene or notices of intervention must meet the requirements 
specified by the regulations in 10 CFR part 590.
    Filings may be submitted using one of the following methods: (1) 
emailing the filing to fergas@hq.doe.gov with FE Docket No. 12-77-LNG 
in the title line; (2) mailing an original and three paper copies of 
the filing to the Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities at the 
address listed in ADDRESSES. The filing must include a reference to FE 
Docket No. 12-77-LNG; or (3) hand delivering an original and three 
paper copies of the filing to the Office of Natural Gas Regulatory 
Activities at the address listed in ADDRESSES. The filing must include 
a reference to FE Docket No. 12-77-LNG.
    A decisional record on the Application will be developed through 
responses to this notice by parties, including the parties' written 
comments and replies thereto. Additional procedures will be used as 
necessary to achieve a complete understanding of the facts and issues. 
A party seeking intervention may request that additional procedures be 
provided, such as additional written comments, an oral presentation, a 
conference, or trial-type hearing. Any request to file additional 
written comments should explain why they are necessary. Any request for 
an oral presentation should identify the substantial question of fact, 
law, or policy at issue, show that it is material and relevant to a 
decision in the proceeding, and demonstrate why an oral presentation is 
needed. Any request for a conference should demonstrate why the 
conference would materially advance the proceeding. Any request for a 
trial-type hearing must show that there are factual issues genuinely in 
dispute that are relevant and material to a decision and that a trial-
type hearing is necessary for a full and true disclosure of the facts.
    If an additional procedure is scheduled, notice will be provided to 
all parties. If no party requests additional procedures, a final 
Opinion and Order may be issued based on the official record, including 
the Application and responses filed by parties pursuant to this notice, 
in accordance with 10 CFR 590.316.
    The Application filed by Oregon LNG is available for inspection and 
copying in the Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities docket room, 
Room 3E-042, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585. The 
docket room is open between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Application and any filed 
protests, motions to intervene or notice of interventions, and comments 
will also be available electronically by going to the following DOE/FE 
Web address: https://www.fe.doe.gov/programs/gasregulation/.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on August 31, 2012.
John A. Anderson,
Manager, Natural Gas Regulatory Activities, Office of Oil and Gas 
Global Security and Supply, Office of Fossil Energy.
[FR Doc. 2012-22088 Filed 9-6-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
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