Alaska LNG wins early federal approval, clearing final permit for 800-mile pipeline
(UI) — The Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council announced Thursday that it has completed all federal approvals for the Alaska LNG project, finalizing a permitting process that began in 2017 and clearing one of the largest infrastructure projects in modern U.S. history.
The NOAA Fisheries permit renewal, issued Dec. 10, marked the final authorization required under the federal FAST-41 process. The project includes an 800-mile (1,287 km) natural gas pipeline from Alaska’s North Slope to a liquefaction and export terminal in South Central Alaska, capable of delivering up to 3.5 Bcf/d of gas for domestic use and global export.
“I am thrilled to see the Alaska LNG project finish federal permitting actions ahead of schedule,” said Permitting Council Executive Director Emily Domenech. “After delays during the previous Administration, Alaska LNG returned to FAST-41 coverage to help navigate the complexities of the federal permitting process.”
The $40 billion project, sponsored by 8 Star Alaska LLC, a Glenfarne-led consortium, is designed to unlock the state’s North Slope gas reserves, create long-term jobs, and expand energy access for both Alaskans and international partners.
“This project strengthens U.S. energy security, creates jobs for Alaskans, and reinforces our commitment to a permitting system that works at the speed of American innovation,” said Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.
Alaska’s congressional delegation hailed the news as a turning point for the state’s energy economy. Sen. Lisa Murkowski called it “crucial for our future—it can help secure Alaska’s economy for the next generation,” while Sen. Dan Sullivan said the approval “will transform our state with billions of dollars in economic activity and reliable, low-cost energy for our communities.”
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) served as the lead agency for the review, coordinating efforts under the FAST-41 permitting framework.
With federal permitting now complete, Alaska LNG moves closer to a potential final investment decision and construction start.
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