FERC Proposes Blanket Authorization Program for LNG Facility Activities and Expansions

On October 15, 2026, FERC unanimously issued a notice of proposed rulemaking establishing a blanket authorization program for eligible activities at liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities. The proposal would allow qualifying construction, modifications, and expansions to proceed without individual authorization orders under Sections 3 and 7 of the Natural Gas Act.

The proposed framework provides 1) automatic authorization for qualifying activities that do not increase authorized capacity, 2) a 60-day prior-notice process for eligible capacity increases, and 3) a 90-day prior-notice process for certain new facilities, including liquefaction trains, LNG storage tanks, and marine berths. The proposal would streamline authorization of qualifying fossil-fuel infrastructure activities through these standardized procedures in place of individual authorization orders. As a result, the proposed blanket authorization would likely enable and accelerate additional greenhouse gas emissions associated with natural gas production, liquefaction, transportation, and combustion.

Comments are due by December 21, 2026. 91 Fed. Reg. 66492 (Oct. 20, 2026).