Resistance against LNG Terminal: Municipality of Binz Objects

In the dispute over the Rügen liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, there is a move towards confrontation. The immediately adjacent community of Binz has filed a formal petition with the Federal Administrative Court against the operation of the new facility. The community lawyer Reiner Geulen appealed to the legal authorities, emphasizing safety concerns based on German and international standards. He specifically points out four expert opinions, including that of Bärbel Koppe, a recognized professor of hydromechanics, who certifies significant hazard potentials at the Mukran port. The risk analyses mention serious collision risks resulting from the positioning of two special ships for gas processing. These ships could theoretically collide with tankers delivering liquefied gas. Additionally, there is danger that in the event of damage, firefighting by the ship's crew cannot be guaranteed, especially if evacuation were required, and the risk of explosion due to possible damage to gas tanks. The imminent commissioning of the terminal, scheduled for mid-May, should be suspended by a preliminary injunction according to Geulen, in order to prevent potentially irreparable safety risks. Further applications are poised to be submitted: among others, for the state association of the German Youth Hostel Association, whose accommodation is located near the controversial site. This happens against the backdrop of a recent legal defeat for environmental organizations opposing the LNG project. In the wake of the energy crisis triggered by the Ukraine conflict, the federal government is accelerating the import of LNG as part of a diversification strategy. Despite the environmental concerns raised and objections to the necessity of the terminal, which recently completed its trial operation successfully, it has been approved for regular operation.