U.S. regulators have authorized Venture Global to begin construction of its CP2 liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant in Louisiana, according to a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) document released on Friday. This approval marks a significant step for the project, which is set to become the largest LNG export facility in the United States upon completion.

Model of LNG tanker is seen in front of the U.S. flag in this illustration taken May 19, 2022.

The CP2 plant, with a capacity of 28 million metric tons per year, is expected to strengthen the U.S. position as the world’s leading exporter of LNG. The project could also position Venture Global as the largest LNG company in the U.S., enhancing its role in the global energy market.

Following a comprehensive environmental review, FERC determined that the CP2 project aligns with public interest. The review was prompted by a 2024 court ruling from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, which overturned FERC’s approval of another LNG project in Texas. As a result, FERC conducted an additional assessment of CP2’s impact on air quality, concluding that the project meets necessary standards to proceed.

Federal regulators stated: “Neither the presumptive stay ... nor the Commission’s regulations barring construction for a limited period pending rehearing will apply upon issuance of this order.” With this approval, Venture Global’s CEO, Mike Sabel, announced on Friday that construction at the Louisiana site would commence immediately.

The CP2 project has been a focal point in discussions between the energy industry and environmental groups, who have raised concerns about the expansion of LNG facilities along the U.S. Gulf Coast. The recent FERC decision reflects a balanced consideration of energy development and environmental factors, allowing the project to move forward.