NEWS - ARCHIVE

 

Passamaquoddy Reservation Overwhelming Vote Supports Quoddy Bay LNG Development
February 28, 2007

In an overwhelming show of support, the Passamaquoddy Tribe’s Indian Township Reservation has voted 224 to 10 in favor of Quoddy Bay LNG’s development of a liquefied natural gas import facility and the signing of a Tax Agreement that will initiate lease payments to the Tribe. The facility, the first of its kind in Maine to submit a formal application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, will be located on the Passamaquoddy Pleasant Point Reservation and in the adjacent Town of Perry.

As part of the Ground Lease Agreement between Quoddy Bay and the Pleasant Point Reservation, the Reservation and the Joint Tribal Council, which is comprised of delegates from both reservations of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, were required to sign the agreement. The agreement lowers the TERO tax to 1% and eliminates all other personal and property taxes for the LNG project in exchange for substantial lease payments from Quoddy Bay LNG to the Pleasant Point Reservation.

Recent cooperation from the newly elected leadership on both reservations resulted in an offer from Pleasant Point to share the lease payments. Leaders from Indian Township called for Tuesday’s referendum vote to decide whether or not to accept the offer of sharing the revenues on a per capita basis. Voters in Indian Township clearly stated they wanted their council to accept the offer and support the development by signing the Tax Agreement by voting 224 to 10.

“The generous offer from Pleasant Point and the overwhelming vote of support from Indian Township shows that the Reservations are behind this project and that they wish to move forward together,” said Quoddy Bay Tribal Relations Director and former Representative Fred Moore. “The support shown by the Tribe as a whole is indicative of the importance of this project to the Tribe and to the region.”

“We couldn’t be happier with the outcome of the vote,” said Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith. “We are pleased to initiate lease payments to the Tribe as soon as the formal document is executed by the Joint Tribal Council and the Pleasant Point Reservation.”

The formal process of signing the Tax Agreement is expected to begin as soon as meetings can be scheduled.

Once the facility is fully constructed, Quoddy Bay LNG will pay up to $12 million a year in lease payments to the Tribe, depending on the amount of liquefied natural gas running through the facility.

“Both reservations will benefit from the job opportunities created by this project, and the signing of the Tax Agreement will allow for the entire Tribe to enjoy the benefits of the lease payments,” added Smith.

Quoddy Bay LNG continues to develop the project with the intention of receiving all permits to by the end of this year. Construction on the project will take up to three years. Quoddy Bay LNG hopes to be operational by the winter heating season of 2009-2010.
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Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG, L.L.C. is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Washington County, Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from representatives of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

Quoddy Bay LNG Project Moves Forward
Quoddy Bay Delivers Letter to Secretary of State
[download letter here]
February 15, 2007

Quoddy Bay LNG will continue to move forward with the development of a liquefied natural gas import and regasification facility in Washington County, ME.  This announcement comes one day after the announcement from Canada’s ambassador to U.S. officials that Canada will attempt to prevent the usage of the waters by LNG tankers that are necessary to reach the Quoddy Bay facility.

In an effort to resolve the issues presented by the letter from Ambassador Wilson, Quoddy Bay president Donald Smith submitted a letter to the State Department outlining the company’s position and requesting that the U.S. State Department clarify its position on the matter.

“It appears that the Ambassador has overlooked international law when describing the position of the Canadian government. We are confident that the State Department’s attorneys agree with our legal interpretation that an attempt to prevent LNG vessels from using Head Harbour Passage violates international laws and agreements” said Project Manager Brian Smith.  “It appears that the Canadian government is attempting to circumvent due process and the FERC review in order to prevent the fair treatment of our project” continued Smith.

In order to access the Quoddy Bay site, LNG ships would need to transit through Head Harbor Passage, which Canada has now claimed to be sovereign waters.  Ambassador Wilson has also noted that these waters would be unfit for LNG tanker traffic due to the fog, currents and wind.  These claims appear to be based on a study conducted by the Canadian government that raised safety, security, and environmental issues that would affect Canadian citizens as the primary reason for opposing the projects.

On December 15, 2006, Quoddy Bay filed its formal application with FERC to locate an LNG facility on the Pleasant Point Reservation and in the town of Perry, ME.  The application included thirteen reports that covered issues ranging from socioeconomics, engineering, to a wide variety of environmental matters.  The review process usually takes a year to complete.

“The FERC review process is transparent and inclusive to all interested parties.  Canada has yet to release this study, but more importantly it did not include participation from anyone at Quoddy Bay or the public” said Smith.  “On the contrary, our ship simulations that included participation from local Canadian pilots and Transport Canada confirmed that the waterway is suitable for the vessels that will come to our facility.”

“Furthermore, this waterway has been used for centuries by both countries to conduct peaceful commerce.  We hope that our long time friends and energy partners to the north will continue to uphold existing practices and international so that we can move forward amicably” concluded Smith.

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Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG, L.L.C. is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Washington County, Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from representatives of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

 

Quoddy Bay LNG Commits $3.7 Million Annually to Perry

February 5, 2007

[download agreement summary here]
[download full agreement here]

Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing a 2.0 billion cubic feet per day liquefied natural gas import facility in Washington County, Maine, announced today that it has signed an agreement with the Selectmen of the Town of Perry outlining the specifics of its financial commitment to the town.

“We’re committed to playing a role in the economic future of the region,” said Quoddy Bay Project Manager Brian Smith. “This agreement allows the Town of Perry to be an economic and educational leader in Washington County,”

“If passed by voters in March, we will be paying $3.6 million dollars per year, literally double the total current town budget,” added Smith. “Plus, we’ll be funding an additional $100,000 annually earmarked for annual scholarships for Perry residents.”

The Financial Framework Agreement begins at the start of project construction, scheduled for early 2008.

Quoddy Bay has also agreed to fund $1,000,000 for renovation and expansion of the Perry Elementary School. Current estimates for needed expansion and renovation amount to $600,000. Quoddy Bay has agreed to an additional $400,000 for infrastructure and/or educational equipment, such as laptops and accessories, for teaching Perry Elementary students.

“Regardless of whether the agreement is accepted by the town voters, the Quoddy Bay project will be a huge benefit to the Town of Perry,” stated Smith. “This agreement just makes it even better. With this agreement, Quoddy Bay will basically double its payments to the town, will fund a significant renovation of the school, and increase certainty with respect to payments for both the town and the company.”

Quoddy Bay has also agreed to an abutter buy-out program, and to address possible impacts to local fishing with area fishing groups. This agreement will also cover costs that may be otherwise borne by the Town of Perry in association with the development.

It is expected that voters will decide whether or not to accept this agreement in March.

“All three Selectmen did a great job communicating the town’s interests to Quoddy Bay,” said Deputy Project Manager Adam Wilson. “While this agreement increases our expected costs, we hope that the increased certainty and the increase in benefits to the town under the agreement will improve the project overall.”

 

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Editor’s Note: Quoddy Bay filed its formal application with the Federal Energy Regulation Commission in December of last year. Quoddy Bay expects to begin construction early next year, and expects to begin operations in the winter heating season of 2009/2010.

 

Quoddy Bay LNG First to File Federal Application for Import Terminal
December 15, 2006

Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing a 2.0 billion cubic feet per day liquefied natural gas import facility in Washington County, Maine, has announced it has filed its formal application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the lead Federal agency in approving and locating LNG projects. Today’s filing follows Quoddy Bay LNG’s successful completion of the new FERC-mandated pre-filing process.

“The Quoddy Bay LNG Project has reached an important milestone and is significantly closer to providing the Northeast with environmentally clean natural gas the region needs to keep up with increasing demand,” said Quoddy Bay LNG President Donald M. Smith. “We are also one step closer to providing a critical economic stimulus to Washington County including important lease revenues to the Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Indian Reservation.”

The project is partially on the Pleasant Point Reservation. Members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe solicited the developer to explore the concept of locating an LNG import facility there and provide the Tribe with greater economic self-sufficiency.

Today’s filing, which consists of boxes of applications, reports and supporting documents, was had delivered to the offices of FERC in Washington, DC. Quoddy Bay submitted this filing almost exactly one year after initiating the pre-filing process with FERC in December of 2005. In that time, Quoddy Bay LNG received requests for data and comments from FERC and other interested agencies on two full submittals of draft reports which incorporate into today’s formal application.

“Unlike many other prior applicants for such licenses, Quoddy Bay has had the advantage of having a thorough review process by FERC before filing its formal application,” said Brian Smith, Project Manager of Quoddy Bay LNG. “This new FERC process has been a success from our perspective and we’ve been able to incorporate all the comments received from FERC, other Federal and State agencies, and stakeholders throughout the region into our formal filing.”

“This process and the comments we’ve received after thorough review give us a very high level of confidence that our application will be approved,” continued Brian Smith. “We will begin scheduling construction in anticipation of a favorable formal review and the granting of Federal permits.”

Quoddy Bay will now complete a comprehensive formal review process, as FERC prepares the Environmental Impact Statement for the Project. The review process includes several public comment periods, and is expected to take almost a year.

“The FERC process will continue to be very inclusive and we hope that everyone who has an interest in the Project will provide comments,” said Brian Smith. “We continue our work and our commitment to assure that this will be a safe and secure facility that absolutely will not unreasonably impact the local environment.”

“We believe our many supporters will help demonstrate the positive economic impact we’ll have on Washington County and the New England region,” continued Smith.

Quoddy Bay LNG’s formal FERC filing includes a complete application but it is not a completion of required applications. Over the next few months, Quoddy Bay will submit applications for all other Federal and State permits. These filings will incorporate initial feedback from on the formal FERC application from several agencies. Quoddy Bay LNG expects that State agencies will receive complete applications in early 2007.

“We still have a lot of work on other applications and we hope that continued discussions with regulatory agencies will ensure those applications are as comprehensive and strong as our FERC application,” said Smith.

Quoddy Bay LNG’s filing proposes a 2.0 bcf/d LNG import, storage, and regasification facility on the Pleasant Point Reservation and in Perry, Maine. The project includes an LNG terminal facility comprised of four main components:

· The LNG Import and Regasification Facility, which includes a Pier extending from the Reservation, two vessel Berths, and a regasification Process Platform;
· The Split Rock Support Facility on the Reservation, which includes a control building, office and warehouse;
· The LNG transfer pipelines and vapor return line; which connect the pier to
· The Onshore Storage and Regasification Facility, which includes three storage tanks, electric generation equipment, and a regasification facility on vacant land in the adjacent Town of Perry.

The Project includes a 35.8-mile, 36-inch-diameter natural gas sendout pipeline from the LNG Terminal to the Maritimes and Northeast interstate natural gas pipeline in the town of Princeton. The Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline expansion for the Quoddy Bay Project is detailed in a report prepared by the Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline Company and submitted to FERC in September.

Quoddy Bay LNG expects to begin operations in the winter heating season of 2009/2010.

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Editor's Note: Quoddy Bay LNG, L.L.C. is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Washington County, Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from representatives of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

 

Quoddy Bay LNG Releases Construction Plan Details


December 13 , 2006

Quoddy Bay LNG has begun preparations for construction by signing contracts for a parcel of land in the town of Perry to be used as a temporary worker lodge. The thirty acre site, at the corner of US Route 1 and Route 190, will contain temporary lodging for construction workers who will build the terminal and associated infrastructure.

Quoddy Bay chose the location with the help of the Citizens’ Advisory Panel, which is made up of fifteen citizens from such communities as Pleasant Point, Eastport, Perry, Calais, and Machias.

“We expect that hundreds of workers will commute from the local communities,” said Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith. “While we won’t ever use the whole 30 acre site, we want to make sure we have enough lodging for any workers that prefer not to commute.”

Quoddy Bay LNG intends to provide many necessities required by its workers at the site. To that end, Quoddy intends to hire dozens of non-construction workers from the local communities, such as chefs, servers, housekeepers, administrative staff, and other staff to help maintain the housing facility throughout construction.

The facilities will include indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, a large dining room, a café, laundry facilities, private security and enough rooms for those who decide to stay in the temporary modular housing. Smith noted that Quoddy Bay will remove all structures from the site after construction is completed and added that there will be no long term impact to the site or surrounding area.

“While we intend to provide everything our workers need, we fully expect that during their personal time they will spend a great deal of money in the local community” said Smith. “When the workers are not working, they’re tourists, so I hope the area can be ready and make the most of any business opportunities that arise,” Smith continued.

The number of employees who will take advantage of Quoddy Bay LNG’s temporary lodging depends upon how many local workers help build the LNG facilities. During the three year construction period, an average of 735 workers will be needed to help complete the Quoddy Bay LNG Project.

Quoddy Bay LNG continues its commitment to construct the nation’s most reliable liquefied natural gas facility by meeting all requirements of local, state, and federal regulatory agencies. Quoddy Bay LNG expects to begin operations in the 2009/2010 winter heating season.

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Editor’s Note: Quoddy Bay LNG, L.L.C. is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Washington County, Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from representatives of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

 

Quoddy Bay LNG Seismic Hazard Analysis Memo

October 9, 2006

 

Quoddy Bay LNG Submits Second Draft of Resource Reports

Facility On Track For Operation In Winter of 2009/2010

October 2, 2006

Quoddy Bay LNG has completed filing of its second round of draft resource reports to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), putting the project on track for a formal application this in November.

As requested by FERC, the second round of reports includes additional environmental data, updated study results, and greater detail of the design. Additionally, Quoddy Bay LNG has filed a report by Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline defining the engineering requirements, maps the location of additional facilities, and lists the environmental resources associated with an expansion of the existing pipeline to accommodate up to 2.0 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day from the Quoddy Bay LNG facility.

Quoddy Bay LNG first submitted a complete package of resource reports to FERC in June. Per the protocol of the review process, FERC made a request for additional data on design and analysis that was previously unclear or not included in the initial drafts.

“A few weeks ago, FERC requested further information on our project, and we are happy to announce that we’ve submitted updated drafts in a timely manner,” said Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith. “Following this, we’re on track to submit our final formal application to FERC next month,” added Smith.

Smith noted that both Quoddy Bay and its team of consultants dedicated their full efforts in recent weeks to entirely comply with FERC’s request.

“Our world-class team of environmentalists and engineers deserve an immense amount of credit,” said Smith. The work they performed on these resource reports is truly impressive in quality and efficiency.”

Resource reports are a series of a structured requests, including environmental and safety testing results, design details, facility planning, construction procedures and operational plans for the Import and Regasification Facility, the Storage Facility, and the Sendout Pipeline.

Critics of LNG development in the area have expressed concern that FERC has not been thorough with its review on all projects. FERC, however, continues to require a higher level of detail and thoroughness in resource reports than in recent years.

“Much of what FERC has requested would have previously only been required during final design,” noted Smith. “These requests indicate FERC is giving the Quoddy Bay LNG project a thorough review in order to ensure not only a complete application, but a safe and reliable facility.”

FERC requested a second, comprehensive set of draft resource reports to ensure Quoddy Bay LNG’s final application in November will be complete, supplying the Commission the information it needs to thoroughly review the project with regards to Federal regulations.

In the coming months, Quoddy Bay LNG will turn its focus to the state and local permitting process as well as move forward on other aspects of the development. Following the formal FERC application submittal in November 2006, Quoddy Bay LNG plans to have all local, state, and federal permits in hand for fall 2007, enabling construction to commence in Pleasant Point and Perry, Maine toward the end of 2007.


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Editor’s Note: Quoddy Bay LNG is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to a request from the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe to determine the feasibility of, and then to develop an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

 

Former Tribal Representative Joins Quoddy Bay LNG

September 26, 2006

Fred Moore, the Former Passamaquoddy Tribal Representative, to Join the Company Developing and LNG Import Facility on the Pleasant Point Reservation

Fred Moore, the former Passamaquoddy Tribal Representative to the Maine State Legislature, has agreed to join Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing an LNG import facility on the Passamaquoddy Tribe’s Pleasant Point Reservation.

Moore had an instrumental part in attracting Quoddy Bay LNG to evaluate the feasibility of citing an LNG import facility on the Pleasant Point Reservation three years ago. He recently narrowly lost election as Governor of the Pleasant Point Reservation by just 10 votes. Moore’s new role in the company will be working with Quoddy Bay Project Manager Brian Smith to complete the development of the project.

“We are excited to have Fred working again on the project he played such a large part in starting,” said Don Smith, President of Quoddy Bay LNG. “Fred put extraordinary efforts into attracting this development to the Reservation three years ago, and will now assist us in the completion of this project.”

“While we have had differences with Fred in the past, neither of us has ever doubted that LNG offers the best hope to bring economic prosperity to the Passamaquoddys. He clearly has an understanding of the intricacies of both Reservations, as well as of the state government in Augusta, as a result of his public service at the Legislature.” added Smith. “His insights will help Quoddy Bay ensure the success of one of its primary goals - to bring economic opportunity to Washington County and to its Native American residents.”

“The Quoddy Bay LNG facility is an extremely important project for the Pleasant Point Reservation, and I hope that I can work with both Reservations to make the Quoddy Bay LNG import facility a large part of the entire Passamaquoddy Tribe,” said Fred Moore. “This project started as a polite conversation in Augusta, and has blossomed into what will become an enormous part of the Washington County economy within the next couple of years.”

Moore’s business relationship with the Quoddy Bay LNG project had changed over the past year as Moore sought to develop an alternative project in Calais that would be partly owned by the Indian Township Reservation the other part of the Passamaquoddy Tribe. However, the Calais project has not moved forward as quickly as Moore had hoped. Consequently, Moore decided to renew his relationship with the Quoddy Bay LNG project.

“Benefiting the Tribe has always been my first priority,” adds Moore, “and I feel that the continued progress on this project demonstrates that this is the best opportunity to accomplish that goal. I hope that I can now work with Quoddy Bay LNG to ensure that the Quoddy Bay LNG import terminal provides a maximum benefit to the entire Passamaquoddy Tribe.

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Editor’s Note: Quoddy Bay LNG is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to a request from the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe to determine the feasibility of, and then to develop an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

Quoddy Bay LNG Job Fair Attracts Community Workforce

September 23, 2006

Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing a 2.0 billion cubic feet per day liquefied natural gas facility on the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Indian Tribe, welcomed more than 125 people to Saturday’s job fair at the Perry Elementary School.

Members of the community asked questions about clerical, managerial, engineering, safety, and construction jobs while learning job descriptions and more about the facility.

Washington County Community College provided information on training programs for several of the construction trades and information on obtaining financial aid, as well as, Helmets To Hardhats, a federal program providing skill set training for military service personnel in the construction and trade industry.

"We’re thrilled that so many members of the community ventured out into the rain to learn about the opportunities during the construction and operation of the Project,” said Brian Smith, Project Manager for Quoddy Bay LNG. "The community support is outstanding and many of the people we met with have skill sets that would make them very valuable members of our construction and facility teams."

Quoddy Bay employees presented detailed job descriptions and answered specific questions related to the ­­twenty facility positions as the Project is expected to create some 80 new jobs for the area.

Carpenters, operators, painters, pipe-fitters, sheet metal, iron workers and electricians met with individuals to describe the crafts needed during construction of the pier and import facility, the three-tank storage facility, and the 36-mile sendout pipeline. An average of 735 workers will be needed during the three-year construction phase.


"This is the first step in an ongoing dialogue with the community workforce. Our goal is to be as proactive as possible when it comes to local workers and their families,” said Smith. "Our first impressions are proving to be correct; we are not going to have a lot of trouble finding local workers to fill a very substantial portion of the jobs at the Quoddy Bay LNG facilities."

Quoddy Bay LNG plans additional job fairs in the spring of '07. Quoddy Bay plans to being accepting applications and resumes in late spring and summer of '07.

###

Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from representatives of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.  Final regulatory permitting and beginning construction of the facility is planned for the fall of 2007, with plans for being operational by the heating season of 2010.

 

Pipeline Capacity Contract Awarded

Quoddy Bay Capacity, LLC has been awarded the capacity for a 25 year term, and have obtained the rights to the entire 2.0 Bcf per day capacity. Quoddy Bay Capacity was the only bidder to submit during open season.

Quoddy Bay LNG Providing Additional Data to FERC

August 28, 2006


Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing an LNG import terminal to bring up to 2.0 billion cubic feet of natural gas per day to the New England region, has begun gathering and preparing additional information for its second round of Draft Resource Reports that will be submitted to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
 
“FERC has requested further information about our plans,” said Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith. “We’ve immediately begun assembling data relevant to our LNG Transfer System and other environmental data that we will present to the Commission just as soon as it is compiled.”
 
Quoddy Bay LNG received a letter from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission dated Thursday August 24, 2006, requesting Quoddy Bay to produce previously unavailable data in revised resource reports before the formal submittal of the FERC application. Quoddy Bay LNG engineers and environmental consultants began the process of gathering the requested information that day.
 
“Critics have accused FERC of simply rubber stamping LNG projects,” added Smith. “We’re pleased the Commission is being thorough with its review of LNG projects, and more importantly giving our project the careful consideration it deserves.”  
 
“I and several members of our team sat down with FERC staff this week to determine exactly what information was being requested,” continued Smith. “We’re eager to provide FERC with the additional information so that they have the opportunity to review the requested information before our formal application.”    
 
Quoddy Bay LNG continues its commitment to construct the nation’s most reliable liquefied natural gas facility by meeting all requirements of local, state, and federal regulatory agencies.  

 

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Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG, L.L.C. is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Washington County, Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from representatives of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.


Quoddy Bay Pipeline LLC Announces Open Season for Proposed Pipeline

[Download Application & Information Sheet]

Quoddy Bay Pipeline LLC (Quoddy Bay) is proposing to build a pipeline from its proposed terminal and storage facilities Perry, Washington County, Maine to an interconnect with the Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline near Princeton, Maine.  The pipeline is proposed to be a 36" diameter approximately 36 mile long pipeline with a daily capacity of 2 Buff.
 
Firm service will be provided in accordance with the general terms and conditions of Quoddy Bay Pipeline, LLC's Tariff once it is authorized by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (ÒFERCÓ), any terms provided in a FERC authorized Rate Schedule for Firm service, and an agreement for service there under.  Interruptible service will be available under a FERC authorized IT Rate Schedule.
 
Quoddy Bay Pipeline, LLC’s is seeking bids for capacity on the proposed new pipeline.  Up to 2 Bcf per day of service can be requested if bid conditions are met.  The open season will run from August 09, 2006 through August 31, 2006.  

Quoddy Bay LNG helps

[Letter to the editor - Bangor Daily News]

I would like to respond to the column by Nancy Asante, "Whole Bay Study confirms LNG opponents' arguments" (BDN, Aug. 7).

Yellow Wood Associates specializes in working against economic development and has no background in LNG or energy facilities. They were commissioned by an anti-economic development organization to seek out any potential negative impacts of a generic LNG terminal, leading to an incorrect and misleading "Whole Bay Study" essay.

The Yellow Wood essay states that all things, with no exception, within a two-mile radius of an incoming ship will be affected as part of a security zone. There is no basis for this assertion in any regulation, guideline, or recommendation. The Coast Guard safety zone will likely be approximately 500 yards, and will only affect the water immediately surrounding the ship during transit.

A concern throughout the essay was the increased municipal resources needed and the burden it would cause on towns. Quoddy Bay LNG has stated that any increased costs to local governments relating to the safety and security of the Quoddy facility will be funded by Quoddy Bay.

Perhaps our biggest concern with the essay is the statement regarding employment both during construction and operation of the facility. Yellow Wood Associates insults the workers of Washington County by stating that only eight local residents could attain one of the 70 to 100 full- time operational jobs and only 27 could attain one of the potential 735 jobs available during construction due to a lack of ability.

Quoddy Bay estimates that at least 250 construction jobs and 90 percent of the operational jobs will be filled by local workers, not to mention the 40 jobs that will be available from the tug company.

Quoddy Bay LNG is working hard to provide an environmentally friendly alternative to oil and coal, and to provide a much- needed economic boost to the
people of Washington County.

Brian Smith
Project manager
Quoddy Bay LNG

 

Quoddy Bay LNG To Host Ferc Staff For Site Visit

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Staff To Prepare Environmental Impact Statement
July 12, 2006


Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing the $700 million Quoddy Bay LNG project on the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Indian Tribe and in Perry in Washington County, was informed this week that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has scheduled a public site visit for the project.
 
“The FERC staff will be preparing an environmental impact statement that we believe will show our project is ‘in the public convenience and necessity.’” says Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith. “This visit will allow both FERC staff and our neighbors to become familiar with the site and give them a better understanding of the description in our recently submitted Resource Reports.”
 
Quoddy Bay LNG recently completed phase one of pre-filings with FERC, submitting detailed Resource Reports 1 through 13 as it continues toward constructing the most reliable LNG facility in the nation.  
 
The site visit notification indicates that FERC will consider the proposed liquefied natural gas import terminal, the LNG storage facility, dual cryogenic pipelines between the terminal and storage facility, and a 35-milelong sendout pipeline for its environmental impact statement.
 
The FERC notice states that anyone interested in participating in the site visit should meet at the parking lot of Quoddy Bay LNG’s office at 95 County Road in Perry on Thursday July 13th at 9:00 am.
 
“Quoddy Bay is happy to work with FERC to continue involving the public in the permitting process, and is thrilled to show off this ideal site selected for the Quoddy Bay LNG Terminal.” adds Smith
 
Quoddy Bay LNG is on track to have all permits in the fall of 2007, and begin operations in the winter of 2009.  The storage tanks, due to the longer construction time, will become operational in late 2010.
 

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Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to a request from the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe to determine the feasibility of, and then to develop an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.


 

Quoddy Bay LNG Completes Phase One of FERC Filing


Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Receives Resource Reports 1 Through 13
June 20, 2006


Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing a 2.0 billion cubic feet per day liquefied natural gas facility in Washington County, has completed phase one of pre-filings with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).  FERC has now received Resource Reports 1 through 13, which outline the detailed design and environmental impacts of the proposed facilities, as Quoddy Bay LNG continues toward the construction of the most reliable LNG import and regasification terminal in the nation.  
 
Prior to filing the remainder of resource reports, Quoddy Bay filed the critical Resource Report 13, the only report that is specific to LNG terminals, last week on June 13th.  FERC requires that Resource Report 13 be submitted at least 90 days prior to the final application submittal.  Quoddy Bay LNG is now in a position to file its formal application to FERC as early as September 13th.  
 
“These resource reports are the culmination of the past year of evaluation of the Quoddy Bay LNG site,” said Brian Smith, Project Manager of Quoddy Bay LNG. “We are more confident than ever that the facility will be permitted by all agencies by the fall of 2007, now that world respected experts have spent months researching and studying the proposed site.”
 
Each resource report includes exhaustive details of the $800 million dollar project.

Resource Report 1 offers a general project description of the project, including maps, aerial images, as well as construction methods, identification of permits, and interested landowners.

Resource Report 2 covers water use and quality, detailing bodies of water, watershed areas, protected and sensitive areas, and consideration to wetlands.

Resource Report 3 discusses vegetation and wildlife, such as fisheries, terrestrial and wetland wildlife and habitats, potential impacts, and federally listed or proposed endangered species.

Resource Report 4 documents cultural consultations with Native Americans.

Resource Report 5 explores the socioeconomics of the facilities, including the impact on employment, housing, local government, local tax revenue, transportation and other factors.

Resource Report 6 looks at geological resources; mineral resources, geological hazards, seismic review requirements, and plans for any construction related drilling and blasting.

Resource Report 7 concentrates on project site soils, identifying, describing, and detailing the possible impact and plans to mitigate and minimize impacts on soils.

Resource Report 8 considers land use, recreation and aesthetics, namely the building of pipelines, access roads, and right of ways in relation to special land uses, scenic areas, existing residences, and local and national landmarks.

Resource Report 9 covers air and noise quality, describing existing air quality, quantifying existing and proposed emissions, quantifying current day and night noise levels, identifying noise-sensitive areas, and discussing impact and mitigation.

Resource Report 10 considers project aspect alternatives, including energy conservation, transportation, and site alternatives.

Resource Report 11 documents reliability and safety measures in the design, construction, operation, and project maintenance, plus preparedness for accidents or natural catastrophes.

Resource Report 12 concentrates on standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency regarding PCBs in the replacement or abandonment of facilities, and remediation requirements.  This Resource Report is not applicable to the Quoddy Bay facilities, and was therefore not filed

Resource Report 13, filed this month,    includes a detailed plot plan of locations of major components of the facility, safety measures such as hazard, fire, and oil containment, and fail-safe systems, plus a list of required permits and approvals and their status.
 

The filing of the draft resource reports allows FERC and state agencies to review all of the reports and provide comments and requests for more information to Quoddy Bay LNG.  All regulatory agencies will work with Quoddy Bay LNG to file the final reports in September with the final application to FERC, and as supplements to the final applications to State and local agencies.  
 
Resource Reports 1 through 11 are available to the public, while Resource Report 12 is not applicable to the Quoddy Bay LNG terminal, and Resource Report 13 is considered by the United States Government to be Critical Energy Infrastructure Information, and therefore not available to the public.  The public can access the publicly available reports on the FERC website (www.ferc.gov <http://www.ferc.gov/> ) by searching for docket number PF06-11.  
 
Quoddy Bay LNG intends to have all permits for construction in the fall of 2007, and begin operations in the winter of 2009.  The storage tanks, due to the longer construction time, will become operational in late 2010.

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Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to a request from the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe to determine the feasibility of, and then to develop an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

Quoddy Bay LNG Submits Resource Report 13 to FERC

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Receives 7 Volume, 1000 Plus Page Document
June 17, 2006

Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing a 2.0 billion cubic feet per day liquefied natural gas facility in Washington County, has filed its Resource Report 13.  The exhaustive and detailed account of plans for facilities fills seven volumes and numbers more than one thousand pages.
 
Resource Report 13 is the critical document specific to LNG terminals.  Resource Report 13 must be filed at least 90 days prior to the filing of a formal application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, which Quoddy Bay LNG expects to file as early as September 13th of this year.
 
Resource Report 13 includes a detailed plot plan of locations of major components of the facility, safety measures such as hazard, fire, and oil containment, and fail-safe systems, plus a list of required permits and approvals and their current status.
 
“This detailed engineering plan for the construction of the Terminal is the basis for all of the environmental reports and our final submittal of applications,” said Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith.  “With every detail, the Quoddy Bay LNG Project becomes closer to completion.”
 
The Resource Report outlines Quoddy Bay’s plan to build a LNG Import, Storage, and Regasification Terminal on the Pleasant Point Reservation at Split Rock and in the Town of Perry in Washington County. The $800 million proposed facility consists of:
 
 
·        The LNG Import and Regasification Facility, which includes a pier, two vessel berths, and a regasification process platform extending east of Split Rock;
 
·        The Split Rock Support Facility, which includes a control building, office and warehouse;
 
·        The LNG transfer pipelines and vapor return line (LNG Transfer System); and
 
·        The Onshore Storage and Regasification Facility (Storage Facility), which includes three storage tanks, electric generation equipment, and a regasification facility; and,
 
·        A 35.8-mile-long natural gas Sendout Pipeline to transport natural gas from the LNG Terminal to the interstate natural gas pipeline in the Town of Princeton.
 
 
“We will file all other resource reports within the next two weeks as required by the FERC guidelines of the pre-filing process.” added Smith. “We’ll be meeting all requirements and submitting timely drafts to FERC and other agencies in anticipation of filing formal applications with all agencies in the fall.”  
 
The FERC pre-filing process requires potential applicants to file the first twelve resource reports within 60 days of the end of the scoping comment period.  Quoddy Bay LNG plans to have all permits in the fall of 2007, and begin operations in the winter of 2009.  The storage tanks, due to the longer construction time, will become operational in late 2010.

 

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Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to a request from the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe to determine the feasibility of, and then to develop an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

LNG firm: Pipeline would skirt wildlife refuge


Wednesday, April 12, 2006 - Bangor Daily News
(Webmaster note: This article was written by the Bangor Daily News to retract erronous reporting in their newspaper a day earlier - falsely claiming that the proposed pipeline by Quoddy Bay LNG would pass through a National Wildlife Refuge. The details listed in that article bear no merit and Quoddy Bay LNG wishes to ensure the public that all environmental aspects and areas near and surrounding the project and its pipeline are being carefully examined and evaluated to ensure minimal environmental distrubance.)

PERRY - A public relations spokesman for Quoddy Bay LNG Tuesday denied that the developer's natural gas pipeline would "pass through" the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge.

Cary Weston said that information submitted last week by Roger Fleming of the Conservation Law Foundation of Brunswick to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission was incorrect. Asked to identify the correct route, Weston, who was traveling, said he did not have that information at his fingertips.

In an e-mail sent to the Bangor Daily News later, Weston said the pipeline, as detailed on the company's Web site, would run from the storage facility in Perry to the west and north for a distance of about 2.3 miles before converging with an existing abandoned rail grade.

The pipeline then would follow the existing abandoned rail grade between milepost 4.4 in the town of Perry and milepost 11.8 in the town of Charlotte. From there, the pipeline would travel to the west and north through Charlotte, Cooper, Alexander and Princeton where it would connect with the Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline.

"At no point does the proposed pipeline pass near or through the refuge," Weston said.

Last year, the developer entered into an agreement with the Passamaquoddy Tribe to build a liquefied natural gas terminal at Pleasant Point. Plans call for a two-berth facility that can handle up to 90 ships a year at Split Rock, near Route 190. The developer plans to build three storage tanks in neighboring Perry. Quoddy Bay was the first LNG developer Down East to submit information to FERC.

Fleming said that's where he got his information.

"I am looking at the map that is contained in Volume 1 of their application that is on the FERC docket," Fleming said Tuesday afternoon. "And it has three alternative routes for the pipeline. Two of the three very clearly go right through the middle of the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge."

In his original statement to FERC officials last week during the Quoddy Bay LNG scoping session, Fleming brought up the issue of the pipeline and the impact on the refuge.

Fleming agreed Tuesday that the company did have another map on its Web site, which offered three additional alternatives, but said he took information Quoddy Bay had submitted to FERC. Fleming said it was CLF's responsibility, if the information was correct in the application, to identify the issues so FERC could analyze them.

During the two-day scoping sessions, more than 50 people offered both written and verbal comments to FERC. The majority of those who spoke said they were against Quoddy Bay's project.

The conservation group last week called for a regional approach for siting an LNG facility at the FERC scoping session based on the potential merits and environmental impacts of adding one or more LNG import facilities to the regional energy infrastructure.

Fleming suggested a two-prong approach to the FERC analysis: first, that an energy and gas supply-and-demand needs assessment should be conducted. "This assessment should serve as a key determinant in decision-making and in explaining regional need to affected local communities," he said in the remarks he submitted to FERC.

Second, he suggested a regional siting approach was needed to determine the specific sites for an LNG import facility "based upon rigorously developed criteria that address both public safety and environmental protection."

To date, there are more than 10 proposals for onshore LNG terminals and offshore deep-water ports in the Northeast and Maritime Canada. Currently, three applicants are advancing through the regulatory system for deep-water ports off the coast of Massachusetts and Long Island Sound.

The CLF's senior attorney also suggested that FERC work with other federal agencies to prepare a regional Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement.

Another concern raised by CLF was the impact the facility would have on coastal and marine environment. He suggested the project be subjected to a rigorous environmental review.

CLF also suggested FERC look at safety issues associated with both the import and storage of LNG and the impact from noise during facility operation, impact to air quality, impact to cultural resources and impact on the scenic and wild character of the area.

Quoddy Bay LNG Presents Gift For Playground


Developer of LNG Facility at Split Rock Gives $7,500.00 for Equipment at Perry Elementary 

David Turner Leads Fundraising Efforts for Perry Elementary School
Pictured (left to right) are Perry Elementary School Principal Arlo Smith, David Turner of the Perry Improvement Association, and Andrea Barstow, Community Relations Director, Quoddy Bay LNG.  Images of students from Perry Elementary School are cleared for publication.

Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing a liquefied natural gas facility at Pleasant Point and Perry, presented checks totaling $7,500 for new playground equipment for Perry Elementary School on Thursday.
 
David Turner of the Perry Improvement Association, instrumental in securing the donation for the Perry Elementary School, received the checks from Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith.
 
After the school removed the old, unsafe equipment last year, Turner and the Perry Improvement Association joined teachers, parents, and volunteers in raising money for new playground equipment.
Initial fundraising activities organized through the volunteers raised modest amounts of money, but the PIA realized the effort was going to need help.
 
Turner approached Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith about the playground effort and asked for donation from the developer.
 
“We were more than glad to pitch in,” said Smith.  “The children of those families who we consider our friends and neighbors deserve a safe and fun place to play.  That’s why we decided to match the money raised.”
 
Quoddy Bay LNG made an initial pledge of $2,500 and promised to match, dollar for dollar, the money raised by the Perry Improvement Association, teachers, parents, and volunteers up to an additional $5,000 dollars.
 
Quoddy Bay originally planned to present the first check of $2,500, but a call from Turner revealed that the Playground Committee had been hard at work and had almost reached the $5,000 match.
 
“I called Brian to tell him we’d raised $4,000 dollars and said that he’d better get ready to write a big check,” recalled Turner. “He asked if I thought we’d reach $5,000.  When I said ‘yes,’ he said that he might as well round up Quoddy’s matching donation to the promised maximum of $5,000.”
 
‘We’re happy that David reached out to work with us,” said Smith.  “This might not have happened if not for the Perry Improvement Association, and the teachers, the parents, and the volunteers with Perry Elementary.”
 
“This is terrific example of how, when community and a corporation work together, it can make a positive difference in our community,” said Turner.
 
The Playground Committee reports  it is well on the way to purchasing new equipment, although work remains and fundraising continues. The Committee is selling Cash Calendars for the month of April and raffle tickets for a beautifully handcrafted quilt created and donated by Eva Bennar. The winner will be drawn in May.  Funds raised at the school’s annual Spring Fling event to be held on May 6 will also go toward the new equipment.
 
Organizers hope children might be playing on new playground equipment at Perry Elementary as early as late spring or early summer.
 
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Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LNG is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point and Perry.
 

 

Excellent Turnout at Quoddy Bay LNG Open Houses

Developer of LNG Facility at Split Rock Meets With Residents of Perry & Charlotte

February 17, 2006

Quoddy Bay LNG, the company developing the $500 million Quoddy Bay Liquefied Natural Gas facility in Pleasant Point and Perry, says open houses concerning the project have been a success.

“We’d hoped that our neighbors would take us up on our offer to meet, to learn, and to share ideas and concerns,” said Quoddy Bay LNG Project Manager Brian Smith. “We are very pleased and very grateful that so many people joined us to find out more about the project and to take part in an honest and open dialog.”

More than 100 residents from Perry and nearby communities came to the Perry Elementary School on Wednesday evening. Participants asked about the project, the pipeline, the economic benefits, and discussed environmental concerns.

More than 60 people from in and around the town of Charlotte came to Quoddy Bay LNG’s Thursday evening open house. Following a presentation, those in attendance met with engineering specialists about the planning, negotiation and development of the connecting pipeline from the Perry storage facility to the Maritimes & Northeast pipeline.

“We designed these open houses to offer information about the project, to gather public comments, and to help refine our plans,” added Smith. “Next, we look forward to our Federal Energy Regulatory Commission-organized scoping sessions.”

FERC Approves Quoddy Bay, LLC’s Pre-Filing Request

Liquefied Natural Gas Facility at Split Rock on Track for Construction in 2007

January 11, 2006

Quoddy Bay, LLC, the company developing the $500 million Quoddy Bay LNG project on the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Indian Tribe, today received notice from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) that the agency has approved the company’s pre-filing request. 

  “After thorough review of our application, FERC has entered us into the structure, transparent federal permitting process,” said Quoddy Bay, LLC Project Manager Brian Smith. “This project will bring economic growth to Washington County and an abundance of clean, reliable energy to Maine and New England.”

  Quoddy Bay’s project calls for 500 construction jobs, and up to 70 full time operational jobs, paying $5 million in annual salaries at the facility alone.  Quoddy Bay is offering the Town of Perry a generous tax, economic development, and recreational development package.  The Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, which will host the import facility, will receive lease payments totaling up to $12 million dollars a year.

  “We look forward to the open houses in early February and the FERC-organized scoping sessions both in neighboring communities,” said Don Smith, CEO of Smith Cogeneration.  “These will allow Quoddy Bay to share details, gather feedback, and refine our project.”

  Quoddy Bay’s pre-application, approved by FERC, draws a timeline that seeks to begin construction in 2007, and operation in late 2009.

  30 – 30 – 30

  Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay LLC is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from representatives of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

Quoddy Bay, LLC Details Project Plans, Timeline

Liquefied Natural Gas Import Facility to be the Most Reliable in the Nation

December 20, 2005 

Quoddy Bay, LLC, the company developing the Quoddy Bay LNG project on the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Indian Tribe, today detailed its plans to construct the nation’s most reliable liquefied natural gas facility at the Maine State Chamber of Commerce in Augusta, Maine.  

Quoddy Bay, LLC officially filed its pre-application to construct a 500-million dollar LNG with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in Washington D.C. on Friday December 16th.  

“The facility we have designed and pre-filed with FERC will become the most reliable facility in the nation,” said Quoddy Bay, LLC President Donald M. Smith. “This facility will have the capacity to reliably supply up to 2.0 billion cubic feet of natural gas a day to the region, which will effectively moderate energy prices for New England, while improving the local economy for decades.”   

Quoddy Bay, LLC’s project is made up of four fundamental components.  First, the LNG Import and Regasification Facility will consist of a two berth pier and a platform with “regas” and “send out” equipment.   

Second, the Split Rock Support Facility will include such infrastructure as a metering station and a power generator.   

The Onshore Storage and Regasification Facility, set within one mile of Split Rock in the Town of Perry, will be the third component.  This facility will house three 160,000 cubic meter storage tanks on approximately 170 acres.  It will also have associated “regas” and “send out” equipment.    

Finally, a 40-mile natural gas pipeline will connect with the existing Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline system, to transport the natural gas throughout Maine and into Southern New England.  

“The tanks will hold about 10 billion cubic feet of natural gas, or about five days of backup supply at maximum capacity,” explained Brian W. Smith, Project Manager of Quoddy Bay, LLC.  “The design allows for up to 2.0 Bcf per day of regasificiation at either the pier or the storage tanks.  If we need to shut down our storage facility for maintenance, we can maintain our supply commitments by unloading directly from ships into regasifiers on the pier.”  

Quoddy Bay, LLC outlined the mandated FERC pre-filing process and timeline, as well as specific opportunities for the public and other stakeholders to interact with the process.   

“The FERC process is very specific about stakeholder interaction,” said Brian Smith.  “The Quoddy Bay LNG project will involve a lot of input from the public so that we will create the best facility possible for the local communities.”  

Quoddy Bay, LLC will host community open houses in late January and early February so its representatives and consultants can inform the public about the details of the facilities.  Following these open houses, FERC and other regulatory bodies will hold scoping sessions so that the public and other stakeholders can share their ideas, concerns, and considerations with the company and FERC.   

After taking into account the information obtained during scoping sessions, Quoddy Bay, LLC will submit timely drafts of Resource Reports to FERC and other agencies, which the agencies will then comment on before the company submits its formal permit application.   

Quoddy Bay, LLC expects to submit its formal permit application by September, 2006, begin construction in 2007, and begin operation as early as 2009.     

30 - 30 - 30    

Editor’s Note:  Quoddy Bay, LLC is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

Quoddy Bay, LLC Files With FERC

Liquefied natural gas facility will bring jobs, revenue to the Sunrise County

December 16, 2005

Quoddy Bay, LLC, the company developing the Quoddy Bay LNG project on the Passamaquoddy Indian Tribe’s Pleasant Point Reservation, today filed its pre-application with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in Washington D.C.

“We’re thrilled to initiate the structured, transparent federal permitting process to bring this significant development to the State of Maine,” said Quoddy Bay LLC Project Manager Brian Smith. “Today’s filing is evidence of our continuing commitment to the economic growth of Washington County, the benefit to Maine, and the greater abundance of clean, reliable energy to New England.”

The mandatory FERC pre-filing process is the first step of the structured federal permitting schedule during which an applicant presents aspects of the LNG project to all stakeholders, including members of the community, state and federal regulators. This process allows all stakeholders to review project details and provide input to the development, prior to Quoddy Bay’s filing formal permit applications with local, state and federal governments.

Quoddy Bay LLC will off load the liquefied natural gas at a terminal to be built at Split Rock on the southern tip of the Pleasant Point reservation. A short cryogenic transfer line will carry the liquefied natural gas approximately one mile to a storage facility in the Town of Perry. The liquefied natural gas can be vaporized either at the pier or at the storage facility.

“Our company has earned respect for developing and operating energy facilities around the world,” said Don Smith, CEO of Smith Cogeneration. “As managers of the Quoddy Bay LLC project, we’re eager to earn the respect of our neighbors.”

Along with 500 jobs during construction, the 500-million dollar project calls for 70 full time operational jobs, paying five million dollars in annual salaries at the facility alone. On top of paying up to 85% of the tax revenues in the Town of Perry, Quoddy Bay has also offered the Town a million dollar economic package that will be used to spur economic growth and improve the region. The Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, which will host the import facility, will receive lease payments totaling up to 12 million dollars a year.

“The Pleasant Point Reservation is pleased to be a part of the Quoddy Bay project,” said Melvin Francis, Chief of the Pleasant Point Reservation of the Passamaquoddy Tribe. “We recognize this as an excellent opportunity for not only the reservation but the entire region.”

Quoddy Bay will hold a news conference on Tuesday to announce the details of the project and outline the scheduled events that will occur over the next year and a half. The press conference will outline the specific opportunities for public input throughout the process, as well as answer initial questions about the facility and the pre-filing process. The time and place of the press conference will be announced on Monday.

Quoddy Bay LLC’s pre-application, filed with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission draws a timeline that seeks to begin construction in 2007, and operate in 2010.

30 - 30 - 30

Editor’s Note: Brian Smith, Quoddy Bay LLC Project Manager, Don Smith, CEO of Smith Cogeneration, and Melvin Francis, Governor of the Passamaquoddy Tribe will be available for interview following the scheduled press conference, 2pm Tuesday, December 20th.

Sutherland Weston Added to Quoddy Bay, LLC Team

December 12 , 2005

Bangor-based Public Relations Firm Joins LNG Project in Washington County Quoddy Bay, LLC, the energy company developing the Quoddy LNG project on the Pleasant Point Reservation, has added Sutherland Weston Marketing Communications to its public relations team. Sutherland Weston will serve as the lead public relations contact for the media and the public. Quoddy Bay LLC Project Manager Brian Smith remains spokesperson for the company. For any media inquiries related to the Quoddy LNG project, please contact Cary Weston at Sutherland Weston Marketing Communications.

30 – 30 – 30

Editor’s Note: Quoddy Bay LLC is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

Donald M. Smith, CEO of Smith Cogeneration Management, Inc., is president of Quoddy Bay LLC. Smith Cogeneration, an energy company based in Oklahoma City, is an international firm respected for its ability to develop and operate energy facilities while keeping the principles of efficiency and environmental quality as its driving force.

Smith Cogeneration Management currently manages the Quoddy LNG development. Quoddy Bay LLC dedicated to the development of the proposed Passamaquoddy Bay LNG import facility with environmental quality and public safety as primary concerns.

Sutherland Weston Marketing Communications is a full service public relation/marketing firm located in Bangor, Maine. For more information visit: www.sutherlandweston.com.

Download the Quoddy Safety and Navigation Study

SAFETY AND NAVIGATION STUDY CLEARS WAY FOR QUODDY LNG PROJECT TO MOVE FORWARD

September 6, 2005

PORTLAND - A safety, security, and navigation study of the proposed LNG import terminal at the Passamaquoddy Indian Reservation on Pleasant Point has found "no major issues, obstacles or concerns" to prevent the project from moving forward, paving the way for Quoddy Bay to apply for state and federal permits for construction of the facility.

The report by the Houston environmental and security consulting firm of TRC concluded that the area is well suited for the importation of liquefied natural gas, and that concerns raised by regulatory agencies can be adequately addressed. "The waterway is deep, adequately marked, not congested, and wide enough to handle the vessels' size proposed and frequency estimated," the report stated.

TRC is one of the largest and most experienced environmental and security consulting firms which write permit applications and defend the applications before public bodies in Washington, DC at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, internationally, and in the State of Maine. TRC was the lead permitting consultant for the successful Maritimes and Northeast natural gas pipeline from the Canadian border to New Hampshire, and has environmental and security reports for numerous LNG facilities throughout the world.

A primary focus of the report led by Captain Jerzy Kichner, USCG Ret., was to determine whether an application of the recently written Coast Guard regulations for LNG tanker safety and security, which were issued in response to the release of the federal Sandia Report, could be adequately applied at the Split Rock site.

Significantly, the study found that that the stringent zones of consideration around the tankers and the terminal studied by the Sandia report on LNG shipping safety, combined with the Coast Guard's new regulations, can be "adequately and successfully applied" at the Split Rock site.

"The demographics of this area do not even fall into the Sandia criterion for population density both with regards to the route of the vessel transit or at the proposed facility site," the TRC report concluded. "Zone One, the measure with the most severe impact on the local population, does not even affect the shoreline anywhere along the vessel's route except slightly during the short transit time in the vicinity of the 'Old Sow' whirlpool."

Brian Smith, project manager for Quoddy Bay, LLC, which commissioned the report, hailed the study as a major milestone in the evolution of the $400 million project that will bring good-paying jobs and a new source of clean energy to Maine.

"The TRC report effectively moves this project to second base," he said. "The study found no major obstacles standing in the way to prevent this project from moving forward to its logical conclusion. The concerns that have been raised by regulatory agencies can be addressed. We believe that this report provides reassurance, not only to our investors and potential suppliers, but to the people of Washington County, that Quoddy Bay will build a safe, modern, efficient facility that will benefit the entire region."

Smith said the company would use the report as a starting point for more detailed studies to prepare applications to the relevant state and federal regulatory agencies, a process which should take a few more months.

The TRC study also found:

- The proposed LNG tanker route - Bay of Fundy to (Split Rock) terminal via Head Harbour Passage, Friar Roads and Western Passage - is suitable in all aspects for the transportation of LNG on large vessels through this area.

- Although the "dangers" of LNG are getting wide attention in the media, there is no focus on the more probable issue of other vessels grounding or puncture of their bunker tanks releasing heavy fuel oil (HFO) into the environment. "A catastrophic HFO leak into the environment from any vessel transiting the area has the potential of impacting the environment much more than any plausible LNG release," the study concluded.

- Various resources to support the LNG operations - such as the number of tugboats in the area, fire/emergency medical facilities and/or incident support mechanisms - will need to be increased.

- While the LNG facility is located in the US, most of the vessels' transit will be through Canadian waters. Quoddy Bay can and will fully comply with both Canadian and US regulations.

The full study is available at www.quoddylng.com. Portions of the study taken from the Coast Guard NVIC have been removed due to its labeling by the US Coast Guard as Sensitive Security Information, and is therefore not subject to public disclosure.



BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS APPROVES PLEASANT POINT LNG AGREEMENT

July 7, 2005

Pleasant Point, ME-Quoddy Bay L.L.C. and the Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Tribe announced today that The Bureau of Indian Affairs has approved the land-lease agreement to build an LNG import facility at Split Rock, a major step forward in the development of the project.

Following a thorough review, the BIA okayed the agreement between the Tribe and Quoddy Bay for the project that will provide about $6 million a year to the tribe and bring hundreds of construction jobs to the area, along with about 80 high paying permanent jobs when the facility is completed in 2009.

"This is yet another milestone for us," said Pleasant Point Chief Melvin Francis, "an historic moment that will lead to economic strength and independence for the Passamaquoddy people. Our attorney, Craig Francis worked many long hours with the Bureau to help make this happen. There is still a lot of work ahead but now hope is at least visible on the horizon."

"The swift approval by The Bureau of Indian Affairs moves this project one step closer to reality," said Don Smith, President of Quoddy Bay L.L.C. "It means that we can continue to move forward to build strong relationships with state and federal agencies while working with the communities in Washington County to ensure a successful, safe and environmentally sound project that benefits everyone."

Quoddy Bay L.L.C. and the Tribe will now undertake the necessary engineering design and environmental studies to apply for State and Federal permits required for all LNG facilities. The terminal will become operational in approximately four years.

Split Rock is located on Pleasant Point Tribal Land in Washington County, Maine. The 15-acre site abuts the Passamaquoddy and Cobscook Bays just one half-mile South of Pleasant Point on Rt. 190. The site was dedicated for Tribal territory in 1794.

The Sipayik members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe signed a land-lease agreement May 19th, 2005 for the development of an LNG facility at Split Rock. This agreement is an implementation of the Passamaquoddy Pleasant Point Reservation's August 2004 vote in favor of hosting an LNG project.


TRIBE AND QUODDY BAY TO ANNOUNCE LNG PROJECT MILESTONE

July 5, 2005

Pleasant Point, ME-Quoddy Bay L.L.C. and the Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Tribe will hold a news conference Thursday for a major announcement regarding the proposed LNG facility at Pleasant Point. The news conference will take place at 1:00 p.m. July 7th in the Tribal Courtroom, at the Pleasant Point Tribal Office 9 Sakom Road, Pleasant Point, Perry, Maine.

For media who are unable to attend, a conference call with the principals will follow at 2:00 p.m. Please contact Emily Francis at 207-347-6077 for a call-in number and pass-code.

Chief Melvin Francis; Craig Francis, Passamaquoddy General Counsel; Don Smith, President of Quoddy Bay LLC and Brian Smith, Project Manager of Quoddy Bay LLC will deliver remarks. Local and state elected officials throughout the region have been invited to attend.

Pleasant Point is the first community and the first Indian reservation in the United States to vote in a referendum to host an LNG facility. The project will provide millions of dollars a year to the tribe and bring hundreds of construction jobs to the area, along with about 80 high paying permanent jobs when the facility is completed in 2009.

The Sipayik members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe signed a land-lease agreement last May for the development of an LNG facility at Split Rock. The Split Rock project site is located entirely on Pleasant Point Tribal Territory just one half-mile south of Pleasant Point on Rt. 190.

About Quoddy Bay L.L.C
Quoddy Bay LLC is an independent energy company based in Oklahoma, formed to develop an LNG import terminal in northern Maine, and owned by individuals and companies both in Maine and in Oklahoma. The company was established in response to inquiries from members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe about the potential of locating an LNG import terminal at Pleasant Point.

Donald M. Smith, CEO of Smith Cogeneration Management, Inc., is currently the president of Quoddy Bay LLC. Smith Cogeneration, an energy company based in Oklahoma City, is an international firm respected for its ability to develop and operate energy facilities while keeping the principles of efficiency and environmental quality as the driving force.

Smith Cogeneration Management currently manages the Quoddy LNG development. Quoddy Bay LLC is dedicated to the development of the proposed Passamaquoddy Bay LNG import facility with environmental quality and public safety as primary concerns.

QUODDY BAY SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR CITIZENS' ADVISORY PANEL

June 21, 2005

Pleasant Point, ME -Quoddy Bay L.L.C. is seeking volunteers to serve on a Citizens' Advisory Panel to inform and represent local communities in the design and development of an LNG import facility on Pleasant Point.

The Citizens' Advisory Panel will consist of interested community leaders from Pleasant Point, Eastport, Perry, and other surrounding communities to ensure citizens have the opportunity to voice their concerns and take a part in the continued development of the Split Rock site. Quoddy Bay hopes that Councilmen, City Managers, Selectmen, Planning Board Members, and other community leaders will join the Advisory Panel, which will consist of 10 to 15 people. Furthermore, Quoddy Bay encourages fishermen, pilots, and other individuals who work in maritime industries to be part of the advisory panel as well.

"We understand that there are genuine concerns about the LNG import facility on Split Rock," said Don Smith, President of Quoddy Bay L.L.C. "We want to give concerned citizens the ability to voice those concerns through local representatives on an Advisory Panel. At the same time, we hope to inform the members of the panel with each step we take, so they can become resources for other community members."

Quoddy Bay hopes to receive letters of interest over the course of the next two weeks, and establish the Citizen's Advisory Board in July. The Advisory Board will meet at least once a month, in Pleasant Point, Eastport, or Perry. The meetings will consist of an update from a Quoddy Bay representative, and then an informal input period where the members of the Advisory Board can help to shape the plans for development of the site.

"We would especially like to reach out to those who currently have concerns with the existing plans," said Brian Smith, project manager of the Quoddy Bay company, who will chair the meetings. "Quoddy Bay wants the opportunity to address any concerns either through communicating more information or by adjusting the development plans to help alleviate those concerns. While the permitting process will require several public input sessions, we want to get a head start and make sure that the local communities are involved from the start. "

Quoddy Bay has been working on the development of an LNG import facility in Washington County since last year. The $400 million dollar facility would support hundreds of jobs in Washington County for the next 50 years. Recently, Quoddy Bay and the Passamaquoddy Government at Pleasant Point signed a contract following a favorable vote of the community to lease land for the purpose of locating an LNG import facility on Split Rock.

TRIBE VOTES TO DEVELOP LNG FACILITY WITH QUODDY BAY L.L.C.


May 24, 2005

Pleasant Point, ME – The Sipayik members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, at Pleasant Point, Maine, and Quoddy Bay L.L.C. announced today that they have signed a land-lease agreement for the development of an LNG facility at Split Rock. This agreement is an implementation of the Passamaquoddy Pleasant Point Reservation's August 2004 vote in favor of the LNG project.

The Split Rock project site, which is located entirely on Pleasant Point Tribal Territory, will not require a vote or zoning approval by any surrounding town. Split Rock, located just one half-mile South of Pleasant Point on Rt. 190, was dedicated for Tribal territory in 1794.

"This is an historic day for the Passamaquoddy people," said Pleasant Point Chief Melvin Francis. "This project gives us the promise of jobs and economic self-reliance that we've strived for, for so long. At a time when military bases are closing and paper mills are laying off workers, this project offers hope for economic and energy independence for the Tribe and for Maine. We look forward to working with Quoddy Bay to move this project forward and make it a huge success.""

"This agreement is a wonderful step forward for Quoddy Bay and the Pleasant Point Reservation," said Don Smith, President of Quoddy Bay L.L.C. "We are now launching a project that will supply Maine residents with an environmentally friendly fuel for their homes, and provide many local families with financial security."

Quoddy Bay and the Tribe are proceeding with the latest technologies to regasify LNG directly from the LNG tanker, so only natural gas will reach the shore. The LNG tanker will dock about 1.5 miles South of Gleason Cove.

Quoddy Bay L.L.C. and the Tribe will now undertake the necessary engineering design and environmental studies to apply for State and Federal permits required for all LNG facilities. The terminal will become operational in approximately four years.



STATE: QUODDY LNG TO CREATE HUNDREDS OF JOBS, MILLIONS IN PAYROLL FOR WASHINGTON COUNTY

May 24, 2005

Pleasant Point, ME – The proposed LNG terminal will create hundreds of secondary jobs in businesses throughout the region with an estimated annual payroll of $20 million, according to an economic impact analysis by the Maine State Planning Office.

The LNG facility will create more than 700 jobs in Washington County alone in the retail, services, wholesale and construction trades along with the 70 permanent, good-paying jobs at the site, according to the state analysis. The $300 million facility would also pay more than $1.5 million a year in state income and sales taxes, in addition to an annual payment of $340,000 to the town of Perry-more than half the town's current annual budget-a number which will grow each year with inflation.

"The State Planning Office analysis confirms that the ripple effects from Quoddy LNG will support hundreds of workers in the area, along with those employed at the facility, and will provide enormous benefits to Perry and all of Washington County," said Don Smith, President of Quoddy Bay L.L.C.. "The direct and indirect spending will support jobs and businesses throughout the region. This analysis shows that Quoddy LNG is a unique opportunity for Washington County. We hope that after reviewing the facts, voters in Perry will approve the development of the project."

Smith said the analysis by the State Planning Office projects the secondary benefits of the project based on expected employment at the facility and expenditures. The analysis demonstrates that the money Quoddy LNG puts directly into the State's economy has important multiplier effects as its employees spend their earnings in local stores, helping to support those stores and their employees who in turn spend their earnings in Maine, further leveraging the economic impact of Quoddy LNG. Likewise, those businesses that sell goods and services directly to Quoddy LNG replenish some of their stocks from other Maine businesses. These "ripple" or secondary effects essentially multiply the direct impacts of Quoddy LNG spending.

The 70 permanent jobs at the facility will pay an average $75,000 per year in wages and benefits.

The State analysis does not include the construction phase of the project, which is likely to create nearly 1000 jobs and will provide enormous economic benefits to the surrounding communities.

The State Planning Office regularly conducts similar impact analysis for economic development projects in Maine, such as the new post office in southern Maine, and its analyses have been shown to be accurate. For more information contact Galen Rose, Maine State Planning Office, 287-1478.




LNG Developers and Tribe offer $1 million annually to Town of Perry

March 24, 2005

In front of the Perry Town Selectmen, Craig Francis member of and general counsel to the Passamaquoddy Tribe and Brian Smith of Quoddy Bay, LLC announced a binding pledge of $1 million annually to the Town of Perry.

The $1 million annually would begin with the beginning of plant construction scheduled for late 2006 or early 2007, and would continue for the 30-year life of the initial contract for plant operation plus three ten-year extensions.

"Because the facility will increase jobs in the region and bring more economic activity, Perry's schools are expected to grow, and this will help offset those costs, along with other infrastructure costs," said Francis. "In addition, many of the Sipayik school children attend the Perry schools. Therefore, I am delighted to announce this pledge of $1 million of unrestricted money from the LNG project to the Town of Perry."

Brian Smith, project manager and coordinator on behalf of Quoddy Bay, LLC said, "Last Wednesday night spokespersons for the Town of Perry communicated a long list of potential costs, related to the LNG project, that may impact the Town of Perry. My father, Don Smith, has said that a small developer, like Smith Cogeneration needs to serve the community first. With that in mind, we have worked since last Wednesday night on a financial proposal to solve these projected needs for the Town of Perry. Based on statements concerning schools, fire protection and community services, we are confident that this pledge of $1 million per year will help."

"The $1 million per year pledge by the LNG project increases the previous pledge of $340,000 by 300%. Last week the Town of Perry produced a new budget for the coming year. The total budget obligation for the town is projected to be $750,000. The new $1 million pledge could allow the elimination of property taxes in the Town of Perry, and still provide for substantial growth in school, fire protection and safety services."


THE PASSAMAQUODDY TRIBE AND QUODDY BAY ANNOUNCE PUBLIC INFORMATION SESSIONS

January 31, 2005

Pleasant Point, ME – The Sipayik members of the Passamaquoddy Tribe and Quoddy Bay L.L.C. announced today that they will hold informal sessions to disseminate information about the proposed LNG import terminal. “We hope everyone will join us at these informal sessions as it will give us an opportunity to speak with local community members face to face,” stated Craig Francis, General Counsel to and member of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, "while at the same time addressing any questions they may have." These sessions will provide information about LNG safety, the economic benefits, environmental and marine safeguards, and general facts about LNG. Tribal members and Quoddy Bay officials will be there to speak about the project. The sessions will be held in the following locations: February 21: Perry, Perry Municipal Building, 6pm-8pm February 22: Pleasant Point, Pleasant Point Recreation Center, 6pm-8pm February 23: Indian Township, Indian Township Recreation Center, 5:30pm-7:30pm February 24: Eastport, The Youth Center, 6pm-8pm

QUODDY BAY AND THE PASSAMAQUODDY TRIBE ANNOUNCE PUBLIC INFORMATION INITIATIVE

January 4, 2005

Pleasant Point, ME – Sipayik (the Passamaquoddy’s Pleasant Point reservation) announced today that Portland-based Savvy Incorporated has been hired to conduct a public information initiative for the proposed LNG terminal.

"After serious consideration, I have asked Quoddy Bay L.L.C, to join me in retaining Savvy, Inc. to help us quickly deliver as much information as possible about this important project to the general public over the next few months," Chief Melvin Francis stated. "Savvy was selected based on their expertise in the LNG industry, their reputation throughout Maine, their broad experience, and their quality of work."

Sipayik has been exploring the possibility of hosting a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal on the Pleasant Point reservation. A vote in August gave the tribal council authority to continue negotiating with Quoddy Bay L.L.C., the Tulsa, Oklahoma-based company that will develop the facility.

"The LNG project is a great economic development opportunity for the Passamaquoddy Tribe, the region and the state," said Dennis Bailey, president and owner of Savvy, Inc. "We're very pleased to offer our help to bring this important project forward, and hope that members of the public and the surrounding communities will withhold judgment until they've heard all the facts."

"We look forward to providing the public with the information necessary to make informed opinions, and are confident that the general public will see this project as safe, environmentally conscious, and economically advantageous for the region," said Don Smith, CEO and President of Smith Cogeneration, Inc., and a member of Quoddy Bay, LLC.. We have heard good things about Savvy, especially with regards to their work on other LNG import terminals."

Within the next two weeks, Quoddy Bay and Sipayik will announce a schedule for upcoming public information sessions.

 

Project Overview

Quoddy Bay LNG, L.L.C. proposes to site, construct, and operate the Quoddy Bay LNG Import and Regasification Terminal Project at Pleasant Point and Perry, Washington County, Maine. More ...

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