In a decision that has drawn criticism from environmentalists, the Biden administration has given the green light for the construction of a significant deepwater oil export terminal off the Texas coast. The Sea Port Oil Terminal, developed by Houston-based Enterprise Products Partners, will be the largest facility of its kind in the United States, with the capacity to load two supertankers simultaneously, exporting up to 2 million barrels of crude oil per day.

The $1.8 billion project received a deepwater port license from the Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration, marking the final step in a five-year federal review process. This move has sparked concerns from environmentalists who view it as contradictory to President Joe Biden's climate agenda, warning that it will result in alarming greenhouse gas emissions comparable to almost 90 coal-fired power plants.

Environmental groups, such as Earthworks, have denounced the license approval, claiming that it poses a threat to both the climate and local communities. They argue that the project overlooks the potential for oil spills, explosions, and pollution, emphasizing that the safest approach is to leave the oil in the ground. This decision could potentially impact Biden's support from environmental allies and young voters who were already disenchanted by the administration's approval of the Willow oil project in Alaska last year.

However, the Maritime Administration defended the project's approval, stating that it aligns with several congressionally mandated requirements, including extensive environmental reviews and a determination that its operation is in the national interest. They emphasized that while the administration is focused on transitioning to a clean energy future, considering the near-term management of this transition is also crucial.

The multiyear review process involved consultation with over 20 federal, state, and local agencies, according to MARAD. The agency concluded that the project itself would have minimal impact on the overall greenhouse gas emissions associated with the U.S. crude oil supply chain since these emissions are already part of the current chain. However, environmental groups have criticized this assertion, urging the Biden administration to take a more consistent stance on fossil fuels.

The approval of the Sea Port Oil Terminal comes after the administration's decision to delay consideration of new natural gas export terminals in the United States, which was applauded by environmentalists. This contrast in actions raises questions among critics about the administration's commitment to shifting away from fossil fuels.

Enterprise Products Partners, the developer of the oil project, expressed satisfaction with the approval. They believe that the terminal will provide a safer, more efficient, and environmentally friendly way to deliver crude oil to global markets. The company has been actively engaging with various authorities and stakeholders, holding public meetings to gather comments and feedback, including translating studies into Spanish and Vietnamese to ensure inclusivity.

The license approval has been celebrated by Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, who stated that it is a major victory for the state's energy industry. Cruz criticized the years-long delays caused by bureaucratic processes and called for broader permitting reform to streamline future projects.

The Sea Port Oil Terminal, located 30 miles offshore of Brazoria County, Texas, in the Gulf of Mexico, is one of seven license applications currently under federal review. Its approval follows a recent ruling by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, dismissing claims made by environmental groups regarding the failure of federal agencies to uphold environmental laws during the project's review.