Entrepreneurs like Cui Zhichen of BCTE are capitalizing on small-scale LNG exports to China using ISO containers like this one on display at the annual Canada Gas and LNG Exhibition and Conference | Photo: Rob Kruyt

A Chinese energy firm is looking to build its presence in B.C., proposing a new, small-scale liquefied natural gas facility in Terrace.

Top Speed Energy is preparing to begin consultations on its Skeena LNG project, proposed to process up to 150,000 tonnes of LNG per year to be shipped by intermodal containers to foreign markets and by truck to domestic markets.

The project is planned for industrial lands adjacent to the Northwest Regional Airport, and the company says it is small enough to avoid federal and provincial requirements for an environmental assessment.

The company says it plans to file an application for a facility permit from the B.C. Oil and Gas Commission, and other permits from the City of Terrace. The project is proposed to be fed by a nearby gas pipeline, and powered by BC Hydro.

Earlier this year, Top Speed signed a two-year deal with FortisBC to ship 53,000 tonnes of LNG per year from FortisBC's Tilbury plant to China, until 2021.

Top Speed said the capacity of its proposed Skeena LNG project is less than 1% of the volume being developed by LNG Canada.

Alaska Highway News