Epsilon led the licensing and permitting for this natural gas liquefaction facility, which provides critical capacity for the New England winter heating season.
Overview
The Northeast Energy Center (NEC) project in Charlton, Massachusetts provides New England access to a reliable, local and cost-effective supply of liquefied natural gas (LNG). To meet the growing peak energy needs of the region, NEC provides critical supply for distribution companies, generation facilities, home heating, industrial applications, educational and agricultural facilities.
NEC is strategically located in Central Massachusetts with direct access to pipelines and highways. Acting as a robust, long-term seasonal energy storage solution at an industrial scale, the plant can liquefy up to 250,000 gallons of LNG per day – equivalent to more than 6,000 MWh of energy. It’s liquefaction process is powered by the nation’s first gas/electric hybrid-drive, maximizing energy efficiency. The facility uses domestic natural gas and shields New England from high-demand scenarios, adverse weather conditions, and supply interruptions.
Contribution
Epsilon managed the full licensing and permitting process for this natural gas liquefaction facility.
Key responsibilities included:
- Energy Facility Siting Board (EFSB) Review: Managed evaluation of the final Southbridge Road/Route 169 site, an alternative site on Sturbridge Road/Route 20, and seven potential pipeline connection routes.
- Community & Municipal Engagement: Presented at local meetings, supported public outreach, and assisted negotiations of the Host Community Agreement with the Town of Charlton, enabling the Town to withdraw objections to the EFSB zoning override.
- Environmental & Conservation Approvals: Delineated wetland resource areas and directed the Conservation Commission wetlands permitting process, securing approvals for the facility, its interconnection, and a remote gas metering station; oversaw construction compliance with Commission conditions in coordination with the Town and MassDOT.
- State Regulatory Approvals: Led the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) review, obtained Massachusetts Historic Commission (MHC) approval, and obtained air plan approval from the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP).
Achievement
This facility reduces New England’s reliance on imported LNG and helps prevent air emission spikes during cold snaps by allowing power plants to use gas instead of oil. It makes use of underutilized summertime pipeline capacity and operates with an efficient hybrid drive.