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Longview steps closer to propane export terminal

Haven Energy’s proposal would move propane and butane to markets around the Pacific Rim.

   The Port of Longview in Washington state and Haven Energy are “finding common commercial ground” in the energy company’s proposal to develop a propane/butane export terminal at the port, said port Chief Executive Officer Geir-Eilif Kalhagen on Tuesday.
   The port has been negotiating with Haven, a subsidiary of Sage Midstream, since April. Last week, the two entities made progress on a number of the issues, including commercial terms for port property and dock use, Kalhagen said. 
   Although a few points remain to be addressed, “we are making progress and have closed a lot of the gaps,” Kalhagen said. “We look forward presenting to the commission a proposed lease in the near future.”
   Haven’s proposal would move propane and butane to markets around the Pacific Rim. The plan calls for the cargo to be transported by rail to the port, refrigerated and stored on site before being loaded to vessels for export to Hawaii, Mexico and Asia. The energy company estimates the terminal would receive a train each day and a half and about 30 vessels a year, once fully operational. 
   Haven must undergo a detailed evaluation under the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) to determine any impacts on the environment, including transportation, public services and human health, before final approval, the Port of Longview said.

Chris Gillis

Located in the Washington, D.C. area, Chris Gillis primarily reports on regulatory and legislative topics that impact cross-border trade. He joined American Shipper in 1994, shortly after graduating from Mount St. Mary’s College in Emmitsburg, Md., with a degree in international business and economics.