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FERC approves gas projects despite calls for fossil fuel phaseout

Summary

The article discusses the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's (FERC) approval of the expansion of two liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects on the Gulf Coast, despite calls for a phaseout of fossil fuels to combat climate change. This decision comes in contrast to U.N. Secretary General António Guterres' warning that the world is running out of time to transition from fossil fuels to renewables to avert a climate catastrophe. FERC granted certificates for the expansion of Sempra Energy’s Port Arthur Phase II project in Texas and Venture Global’s Calcasieu Pass project in Louisiana. Environmental justice activists and critics argue that these projects could increase emissions and air pollution in overburdened communities of color. The article also highlights FERC's internal divisions on considering greenhouse gas emissions in project approvals.

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