Crystal Energy’s Grace Platform expansion proposal or BHP’s Cabrillo Port Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) project; which one makes sense for our community? Surprised there are two projects? Don’t be. Most local people are unaware that there are two very different projects being considered for the coast.
After carefully reviewing both proposals, I feel the Cabrillo Port LNG proposal is a far better choice for all of us! A couple of key points:
* BHP’s project will be a completely new, state-of-the-art facility. The Grace platform is over 20 years old, and the Crystal proposal will extend the operation of the platform to 2015!
* There is no potential for oil drilling if the BHP project is approved, Crystal Energy on the other had has multiple oil contracts in the works for Grace.
* The Cabrillo Port, under the Maritime Security Act, will be required to have a complete and comprehensive security plan approved by the U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; Crystal Energy; maybe not.
From any perspective, BHP’s proposal is better for our community, our environment and our economy. We can all buy hybrid vehicles or ride bicycles to reduce our oil consumption, but most homes in Malibu County are heated with LNG, and there is no viable alternative.
Forest Williams
Carpinteria