Environmental group demands LNG terminal shutdown over noise pollution

The environmental organization Deutsche Umwelthilfe (DUH) has called for the cessation of operations at the Mukran LNG terminal in Germany. DUH claims the terminal's operator, Deutsche Regas, has failed to comply with its obligation to provide proof that noise emissions from the facility meet regulatory standards. The organization uncovered this non-compliance through an inquiry under the Environmental Information Act.

Deutsche Regas was required to submit its initial noise measurements by May 2026. Instead of meeting this requirement, the company has initiated legal proceedings challenging the noise regulations. DUH has also filed an objection against the amended operating permit for the terminal, which allows for higher noise levels, and this objection is still pending.

According to DUH, residents in the vicinity are already experiencing significant noise disturbance from the terminal. The organization is urging the relevant authorities to suspend the terminal's operations until Deutsche Regas can demonstrate compliance with all stipulations. "People are suffering from the noise pollution caused by the terminal. Deutsche Regas does not want to create transparency regarding the actual noise emissions," stated DUH Federal Managing Director Sascha Müller-Kraenner.

The Mukran LNG terminal received its operating permit in April 2024. A subsequent amendment allowed Deutsche Regas to use onboard generators, raising concerns about increased noise levels. DUH insists that the protection of people and the environment must take precedence over the operator's interests.