FERC to Issue Interim Green House Gas (GHG) Policy Statement

Summary:

The Commission is issuing the Interim GHG Policy Statement to explain how it will assess the impacts of natural gas infrastructure projects on climate change in its reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Natural Gas Act (NGA). The Commission seeks comment on all aspects of the interim policy statement, including, in particular, the approach to assessing the significance of the proposed project’s contribution to climate change. The guidance is subject to revision based on the record developed in this proceeding; however, the Commission will begin applying the framework established in this policy statement in the interim. This will allow the Commission to evaluate and act on pending applications under section 3 and section 7 of the Natural Gas Act without undue delay and with an eye toward greater certainty and predictability for all stakeholders.

Additional Discussion:

Application of the Policy

• The interim GHG policy statement does not establish binding rules and is intended to explain how the Commission will consider these issues when they arise in project-specific proceedings.
• The interim GHG policy statement will serve as interim guidance for project applicants and stakeholders but the Commission is also seeking public comment on this policy statement.
• The interim GHG policy statement will apply only to pending and new projects; those applicants with projects now pending before the Commission will have the opportunity to supplement their records. Stakeholders will have the opportunity to respond.

Associated Files:

• FERC Updates Policies to Guide Natural Gas Project Certifications | Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
• Fact Sheet | Updated Pipeline Certificate Policy Statement (PL18-1-000) | Federal Energy Regulatory Commission