Argent seeks to be first Louisiana LNG exporter based in the state

(The Center Square) – Federal regulators have begun a study of the environmental effects of a large-scale LNG export facility proposed by Louisiana-based Argent LNG for a site about 100 miles south of New Orleans at the Port of Fourchon, one of the world’s most active energy shipping hubs, a recent government filing shows.The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission formally requested public comments on the scope of issues that should be addressed in the environmental document, the filing shows.Metairie-based Argent, which wants to build a liquefaction plant with annual capacity of 25 million tons per year on a 900-acre site on Bayou Lafourche, would be the first homegrown company operating in Louisiana’s rapidly expanding LNG export industry. Jonathan Bass, a native Louisianan, is the company’s founder, chairperson and CEO.The five large-scale LNG exporters now building plants in Louisiana, all owned by out-of-state companies, will add about 75 million tons of capacity over the next five years, according to industry analysts. The LNG exporters building the plants are based in Houston, Arlington, Virginia and Australia.Argent LNG says its “Louisiana First” approach prioritizes local hiring and local manufacturing partnerships. The company prioritizes the use of local contractors and suppliers and keeping investments in the regional economy, citing its partnership with Grand Isle Shipyard, a firm based in Galliano, Louisiana.Argent’s project received support last week in a vote in the Louisiana Senate, according to a report in LNG Industry. The resolution, which passed in 36-3 vote, was introduced by state Sen. Michael Fesi, a Republican representing Louisiana’s District 20, which includes the Port Fourchon area.“This resolution sends a clear message: Louisiana is open for business and fostering world-class energy investment, built by Louisiana workers, with American technology, and for the benefit of our allies,” Fesi said in a statement.“Port Fourchon is uniquely positioned to host a project that will define our state’s energy future for generations, while leaning in to support the President’s Energy Dominance Council in supplying countries of shared values with base-load energy to develop sustainable energy solutions. Louisiana will lead the world in delivering affordable energy to provide opportunity to citizens around the globe who align with US principles,” said Fesi.Last July, the Greater Lafourche Port Commission acquired a 743-acre tract from the state to add to an existing 150-acre site, with the purchase specifically intended to provide Argent with the space needed to build a large-scale LNG facility.Argent LNG hosted a community open house in early December at the Greater Lafourche Port Commission office, attended by 200 local government officials and community members, reported The National Law Review.Port Fourchon is the base of operations for over 250 companies which currently service over 95% of the Gulf of America’s deepwater energy production. More than 400 large ships traverse the port’s channels each day.