Oregon Regulators Delay Decision On Energy Export Project

ERTHFX | By Jes Burns

Published June 13, 2016 at 2:30 PM PDT

<p>Looking out toward the proposed Jordan Cove LNG terminal site near Coos Bay. </p> — Looking out toward the proposed Jordan Cove LNG terminal site near Coos Bay.

The state of Oregon is delaying a decision on two permits submitted by the Jordan Cove liquefied natural gas export terminal and pipeline project. The Oregon Department of State Lands says it will take another five months to make a decision.

Canadian energy developers Veresen and Williams pipeline company plan an LNG export terminal in Coos Bay and 230-mile pipeline connecting it with natural gas supplies from Canada and the Rockies.

The permits cover expected impacts to state wetlands and waterways.

Southern Oregon landowners and environmental groups who oppose the terminal and pipeline have begun focusing their efforts at the state level. They’re mobilizing to pressure the Department of State Lands to deny the permits.

These developments come as everyone waits to hear from the federal government on the fate of Jordan Cove. In March, energy regulators denied approval, and have yet to say if they will consider an appeal by the companies behind the project.