Senators Joe Manchin and John Barrasso have introduced legislation aimed at expediting the permitting process for power transmission, mining, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects. This bipartisan effort seeks to strengthen the power grid and maintain low energy prices, addressing the urgent need for increased energy infrastructure.
The proposed bill is designed to facilitate the connection of nearly 2,000 MW of clean energy awaiting grid access, aligning with the Biden administration’s goal of decarbonizing the U.S. power sector by 2035. It emphasizes the importance of building transmission capacity to deliver renewable energy from generation sites to urban areas.
Key provisions of the legislation include:
Increased Bidding Opportunities: The bill allows companies more opportunities to bid on offshore oil and gas leases between 2025 and 2029.
Streamlined LNG Export Approvals: A 90-day deadline is set for the Secretary of Energy to approve or deny LNG export applications, effectively ending the current pause on such approvals initiated by President Biden.
Barrasso criticized the existing permitting system, stating it has hindered American energy production and negatively impacted families across the country. He emphasized the need for Congress to intervene and reform the process.
Manchin described the bill as a “commonsense, bipartisan piece of legislation” that would enhance permitting efficiency while preserving essential environmental protections.
The National Mining Association has voiced support for the bill, noting that it could unlock mining for critical minerals necessary for transmission, renewable energy, and energy storage, such as copper.