DOE Reduces Barriers for LNG Bunkering

The Department of Energy (DOE) announced an order that removes barriers for the use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) as fuel to power marine vessels. This announcement serves as a modification on a previous order under the previous administration issued to JAX LNG, a small-scale coastal LNG facility in Florida.

By issuing an Order on Rehearing, DOE is modifying an order originally issued in December 2024, clarifying that DOE is withdrawing the exercise of its jurisdiction under the Natural Gas Act (NGA) for ship-to-ship transfers of LNG for marine fuel use at a U.S. port, in U.S. waters, or in international waters. The only bunkering-related activity that will continue to be considered an export is when the receiving vessel is located in the territorial sea of a foreign country, including ports. DOE has left unchanged its authorization to JAX to export LNG via ISO container.

"Today’s action is a significant step in reducing regulatory burdens and helping this important