July 24, 2024 - Two US senators have finally introduced a long-awaited bill to the upper chamber that will speed up the permitting of projects related to power transmission, liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports and mining.

On Monday afternoon, independent Joe Manchin and Republican John Barrasso said the legislation, the Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024, would strengthen and increase the reliability of the power grid, and subsequently help keep power prices low.

The legislation sees federal approval and environmental assessment processes shortened, and limits court challenges.

According to several US media reports, the legislation could speed up approvals of clean energy projects, energy pipelines and electricity transmission projects.

However, the schedule for the bill’s progress through Congress and the Senate is unclear, with Washington currently preoccupied with the coming presidential election.

In a related press release, Manchin said the US is “blessed with abundant natural resources that have powered our nation to greatness and allow us to help our friends and allies around the world”.