Construction of the $US800 million ($A1.05 billion) receival terminal, announced in August 2003, was expected to start operating in 2008, with production expected in 2009.

The proposed project, 22km off the coast, has received widespread protest from residents in California, including many celebrities.

Personalities such as Pierce Brosnan, Halle Berry, Cindy Crawford, Ted Danson, Minnie Driver, David Duchovny, Kenny G, Daryl Hannah, James Keach, Tea Leoni, Jane Seymour and Dick Van Dyke recently demonstrated on Malibu Pier.

The Australian newspaper today reported that the most recent objection concerns ships as high as 14 storeys being parked offshore, with the potential for explosions.

California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger was expected to give a decision on the plan this year but is now not expected to do so until the first quarter of next year.

Public submissions will be included in a joint environmental-impact statement by California’s State Lands Commission and the US Coast Guard.

But it is understood that Schwarzenegger has reportedly decided the joint report will be sent for review to the coastal commission.

The Australian reports that the commission is responsible for the protection, conservation, restoration and enhancement of “environmental and human-based resources of the California coast and ocean for environmentally sustainable and prudent use”.

It expects to begin reviewing certification of Cabrillo in January next year.

Excelerate Energy and BHPB-rival Woodside Petroleum are also proposing projects in California. Terminals on the Pacific coast of North America will enable imports from Australia and Asian producers.