Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) -"The Open Loop"

Natural gas is commonly transported in a liquefied form, chilled to approximately 260 Fahrenheit. This liquefied form (LNG) must be heated at regasification terminals, before delivery to consumers via pipelines. Open loop systems are one method of heating LNG to convert the liquid into a gas. Open loop LNG terminals do this by pumping seawater through radiator-like racks. Reportedly, an open loop system can use up to 100-200 million gallons of seawater per day, depending on the capacity of the terminal. The drastic temperature change, chemical treatment with chlorine, and physical damage of the process effectively sterilize the seawater, killing eggs, larvae, and other organisms. In addition, the cold water released into the marine environment can have a very detrimental effect to fisheries.

There is an Alternative -"The Closed Loop"

As an alternative to open loop regasification systems, a closed loop technology can be used. The closed-loop system does not require seawater withdrawal, but instead uses another heat source to continually heat a liquid "bath" that warms the LNG. A Closed Loop system would cost more, a small fraction of profit and the benefit is greatly improved protections for Gulf Menhaden, Red Snapper, Red Drum, Shrimp, Cobia, Dolphin, and Blue fin Tuna among others.