FERC Unleashes Natural Gas Permit Reforms, Accelerating Infrastructure Upgrades for Affordable, Reliable Energy Nationwide

FERC today proposed sweeping reforms to its blanket permitting process for natural gas facilities, under which companies may construct certain facilities without case-specific authorization from the Commission. These reforms will further streamline the permitting process and speed up construction of infrastructure on which Americans rely for affordable and reliable energy.

The proposed reforms empower companies to build much needed critical infrastructure without the delay of case-by-case approvals. These changes should dramatically accelerate construction by cutting through red tape and driving progress for the nation's energy future.

The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR) puts forth a landmark plan to permanently overhaul the Commission's blanket authorization regulations: it significantly broadens the types and sizes of projects that interstate natural gas pipelines can build without case-by-case approval, dramatically expanding the scope and scale of infrastructure covered under the Commission's natural gas blanket program. Additionally, the NOPR seeks to raise cost limits, unlocking greater investment and faster development for projects that deliver affordable, reliable energy to American communities.

The NOPR follows a Notice of Inquiry issued in June 2025 that sought comment on whether, and if so how, the Commission should modify the blanket certificate program.

Also, today, FERC extended the deadline for projects using temporary regulatory waivers on cost limits to May 31, 2028, one year beyond the previous May 31, 2027, cutoff. This extension provides regulatory certainty to the industry as the Commission finalizes its permanent policy.

Ongoing Permitting Reform Review

In addition to today's significant actions, FERC announced in November 2025 consideration of establishing blanket authorization procedures for targeted activities at liquified natural gas (LNG) plants and hydroelectric projects. The Commission is exploring making maintenance, repairs, and upgrades at these essential facilities more efficient and less burdensome to ensure America's energy infrastructure remains safe, reliable, and ready to meet growing demands without unnecessary delays from case-specific approvals.