"When viewed objectively - especially in light of the region's growing energy demands and stated environmental improvement goals - the AES Project fills a variety of needs for businesses, industry and, perhaps especially, the millions of area energy consumers who care about both our natural surroundings and rising energy costs," Morton said.
`Inappropriate'
Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger, whose district includes Sparrows Point, said yesterday's draft report doesn't alleviate his concerns about the LNG project. He said the report only shows that AES has the potential to meet the minimal, major requirements of the commission.
"From the very start, I have said the proposed liquefied natural gas plant is absolutely inappropriate for this residential area in Eastern Baltimore County," Ruppersberger said in a written statement.
While federal law requires the commission to consult with state and local governments regarding safety concerns, the federal agency makes the final decision about LNG projects.
A state government can decide not to issue permits based on environmental standards, but the U.S. secretary of commerce can override that decision.
Baltimore County has prohibited LNG facilities in waterfront areas as part of its Coastal Zone Management Act. But a federal appeals court has not decided whether the county's prohibition is legal.
The commission will accept comments on the Sparrows Point LNG report through June 16.
laura.barnhardt@baltsun.com
LNG plan
Proposed LNG project
A terminal would be built at the former Bethlehem Steel shipyard to receive large overseas tankers carrying the super-chilled, liquefied natural gas.
The plan calls for building an 88-mile, 30-inch pipeline from Sparrows Point to Eagle, Pa.
The proposed pipeline would cross within 50 feet of 179 residences and 46 other buildings.
The terminal would require periodic dredging of a 118-acre area of the Patapsco River.
The terminal would receive two or three overseas LNG ships a week.
Public hearings on the LNG report
June 9, Patapsco High School, 8100 Wise Ave., Dundalk
June 11, East Brandywine Fire Hall, 2096 Bondsville Road, Dowingtown, Pa.
June 12: Richlin Ballroom, 1700 Van Bibber Road, Edgewood
All meetings will be at 7 p.m.
More information:
http:--www.ferc.gov/industries/lng/enviro/eis/2008/04-25-08-eis.asp.
[Source: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission]
