Calais LNG Withdraws DEP Permit Applications
12.14.2010
Portland, ME
Calais, Maine – Calais LNG Project Company, LLC and Calais Pipeline Company, LLC informed the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and the Maine Board of Environmental Protection today that the companies are withdrawing their permit applications from further consideration by the Department and the Board. The letter withdrawing the applications also noted that Calais LNG intends to re-file the applications in the near term.
"It is with deep regret that we withdraw these applications at this time," said Ian Emery, Founder of North East Energy Development and a Principal of Calais LNG. "It is our firm belief that, but for the extreme turbulence of the capital markets, Maine would be well on its way toward having an LNG facility in Washington County that would be capable of providing stable and secure natural gas prices for Maine's industrial, commercial and residential consumers."
"Maine has the highest per capita oil use in the nation – twice as high as any other New England state. This means Maine badly needs natural gas to reduce the economic and environmental harm of this reliance on oil. That is the purpose of Calais LNG."
"A tremendous amount of work has been done to position this $1 billion project for successful permitting, construction and operation. Over $20 million has been spent to date in highly detailed and sophisticated environmental and engineering studies with regard to the project site, the pipeline route and the Passamaquoddy Bay / St. Croix River waterway."
"Further, the Calais LNG project has enjoyed broad public support throughout this process." said Emery. "The City of Calais, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and its members have been stalwart supporters, as have many other organizations and individuals throughout the state. We also have enjoyed the support of many members of the Legislature throughout this process, and we hope that all of our supporters will continue their efforts with us to bring this clean source of energy to Maine and New England."
According to Emery "Calais LNG has always been about creating jobs and improving the economy of Calais, Washington County and Maine. Many Maine companies have done work on the project including local fisherman, harbor pilots, land surveyors, scientists, and local businesses in the region. Based upon this strong support both from and for the community, I am optimistic that we will re-file these applications in the near future, and I look forward to fulfilling the vision of economic growth in Washington County."
For more information, contact Ian Emery (207) 214-7074 or (207) 266-7979 (cell)