R.I. attorney general sues Keyspan over LNG terminal dispute
By Associated Press
Monday, March 7, 2005
news.bostonherald.com
PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Rhode Island's attorney general on Monday sued energy company Keyspan over its plan to build an expanded liquefied natural gas terminal in Providence, the latest round in a debate over who can decide where the facilities should be located.
The lawsuit filed in U.S. District Court by Attorney General Patrick Lynch asserts that Rhode Island should have the right to decide whether Keyspan can add to its LNG facility in Providence. Keyspan filed a federal lawsuit last month asking the court to decide how the state Coastal Resources Management Council should treat its application for the Providence terminal.
Lynch's suit argues states should be allowed to reject a proposal based on underwater sovereignty issues.
``A regulation cannot and will not preempt (Rhode Islanders') ownership, their title to the seabed of Narragansett Bay,'' Lynch said.
Keyspan spokeswoman Carmen Fields said the company would not comment on pending litigation.
The lawsuits underscore a battle between state and local leaders and energy companies over whether the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has exclusive power to determine where LNG terminals are located.
FERC supports the plans to expand the Providence facility, and to build an LNG terminal in Fall River, Mass., and in Long Island Sound off the Connecticut coast.
New England lawmakers have said the proposals create security concerns and could impede some vessel traffic and fishing in waterways. Many municipal leaders also have objected to the plans. |
