October 30, 2023 [LNG Prime]- Freeport LNG, the operator of the three-train 15 mtpa liquefaction plant in Texas, has secured approval from the US FERC to start commissioning its second jetty.

In February this year, the LNG terminal operator shipped the first cargo from its LNG export plant in Texas since the shutdown in June 2022.

Freeport LNG received approvals from both FERC and PHMSA during the first quarter to restart Phase I operations.

These consist of three trains, two LNG storage tanks (tanks 1 and 2), and a single LNG jetty (dock 1).

However, these approvals did not grant Freeport LNG to commission or place LNG tank 3, loop 2, and dock 2 back into service.

In order to continue Freeport’s sequential plan to return the export facility to full commercial operations, Freeport recently requested approval from FERC for the nitrogen cooldown of the loop 2 LNG rundown piping system and the introduction of hydrocarbons to loop 2 to complete its cooldown and commissioning.

FERC said in filling dated October 27 that it has granted Freeport LNG’s request to start “commissioning, including cooldown, of Loop 2 LNG transfer piping, Dock 2, and the 8-inch LNG recirculation piping.”

The regulator said additional authorization to restart operations is necessary to reinstate service for loop 2 LNG circulation to enable ship loading to dock 2.

“Authorization will only be granted following the review of filed responses, a determination that the facilities are fit for service, and documentation that acceptable measures have been put into place to safely return the facilities to operation,” it said.

FERC also noted that Freeport LNG must also comply with any applicable PHMSA and US Coast Guard requirements.

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