The U.S. Department of Energy has granted New Fortress Energy Inc. permission to export up to 1.4 million metric tons/year of liquefied natural gas (LNG) to non-free trade agreement countries from its new facility in Mexico, marking the first such permit since a federal court lifted a moratorium on new licenses in July. This decision has sparked criticism from advocacy groups who argue that it undermines the Biden administration's commitment to consider the environmental and public health risks associated with LNG exports. New Fortress Energy's CEO expressed optimism about supplying cleaner natural gas to underserved markets globally. The DOE has faced scrutiny for approving this license despite ongoing public interest reviews, with critics stating that such actions could negate progress in renewable energy initiatives. The approval comes after a court ruled against a temporary halt that had paused new LNG export licenses earlier in the year. Environmental advocates continue to voice concerns over the implications of increased LNG exports on climate goals.