Here’s how to oppose Cheniere’s LNG expansion permit

Cheniere is seeking a permit to expand its liquefied natural gas (LNG) operations in Gregory. This proposed expansion poses significant additional risks to our environment and health. CAN urges our community to stand together in opposition to this permit.

Cheniere’s LNG facility in Gregory has a profoundly troubling environmental record. It was reported in 2022 that state regulators repeatedly raised pollution limits for Cheniere’s plant after the facility exceeded initial estimates. The company subsequently sought permission for even higher pollution levels.

Cheniere is now proposing to construct two additional liquefaction trains and associated infrastructure, aiming to increase their local production capacity to more than 25 MTPA – all of which is exported overseas.

Allowing Cheniere to expand in Gregory will result in more local air pollution from machines that will run 24/7/365; increased ship traffic that harms local wildlife, seagrass, and bay waters; and the addition of three new flares that will light up the night and add to emissions.

Past inspections have already shown invisible pollution spreading across our region, and if approved, Cheniere will likely be classified as a major source of hazardous pollution under the Clean Air Act. And yet the proposed operating permit lacks clear rules, modern tools, and strong oversight; and the TCEQ has no air monitoring stations in San Patricio County.

The fact is, every time the flares at Cheniere’s facility are lit, the company releases harmful pollutants into the air – volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, and others – that jeopardize the health of nearby residents, and particularly of vulnerable people like children and seniors. For the sake of our air, our water, and our community’s health, we must not allow this expansion to proceed.

There are immediate opportunities for our community to express opposition:

Submit a Public Comment: The TCEQ is accepting public comments on Cheniere’s permit application. Click here to submit a comment, entering Permit Number 4592, and follow the prompts to share your concerns.

Attend the Public Hearing: A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15 at 7 p.m. at the Portland Community Center, at 2000 Billy G Webb Drive in Portland. This is a critical opportunity to voice your opposition and stand in solidarity with fellow community members.

The proposed expansion presents unacceptable risks. Please join the CAN coalition in saying NO to Cheniere’s dangerous expansion plan!