FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act of 2025
Summary
The FERC Greenhouse Gas and Environmental Justice Policy Act of 2025 aims to amend the Natural Gas Act to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to assess and mitigate the climate change and environmental justice impacts of natural gas projects. It mandates the quantification of greenhouse gas emissions and evaluation of effects on environmental justice communities. The bill sets a threshold for significant emissions and requires mitigation proposals from applicants.
Expected Effects
This act would change how FERC approves natural gas projects. It will likely lead to more stringent environmental reviews and potentially higher costs for project developers. The act could also result in fewer projects being approved or projects being modified to reduce their environmental impact.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced environmental protection through mandatory mitigation measures.
- Improved consideration of environmental justice concerns in project approvals.
- Increased transparency and public engagement in FERC decision-making.
- Potential reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas projects.
- Greater accountability for project developers regarding environmental impacts.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential delays and increased costs for natural gas projects.
- Possible reduction in the supply of natural gas, potentially impacting energy affordability.
- Increased regulatory burden on project developers.
- Potential legal challenges to the implementation of the act.
- Possible negative impacts on energy reliability if projects are delayed or canceled.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the U.S. Constitution is primarily based on the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including the transportation of natural gas. The bill also indirectly relates to the General Welfare Clause, as it aims to promote the well-being of communities affected by natural gas projects. The Fifth Amendment's Due Process Clause could be invoked if the regulations are deemed overly burdensome or arbitrary, but the bill appears to provide a framework for fair consideration of environmental impacts.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).