APGA Files Motion with DOE to Intervene in Opposition to SLNG Export Application

American Public Gas Association (APGA) filed a motion with the Department of Energy (DOE) to intervene in opposition to an application by Southern LNG (SLNG) to export approximately 0.5 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d) of LNG from an existing LNG import terminal on Elba Island, Georgia to any country with which the United States does not have a Free Trade Agreement with.

In its filing, APGA states that Southern LNG’s proposal to export LNG is inconsistent with the public interest because it will increase domestic natural gas and electricity prices to the detriment of all consumers; inhibit this nation’s ability to forge a path toward energy independence; and, undermine sustained economic growth in key manufacturing sectors.

APGA has opposed the export of LNG as it will increase prices and harm consumers. APGA has also argued that the price increases caused by the export of LNG will inhibit efforts to foster natural gas as a major transportation fuel, which is important in weaning the U.S. from its historic and high-risk dependence on foreign oil.

To date, 20 applications have been filed at DOE to export 28.67 Bcf per day of LNG to Free Trade Agreement Countries. This equates to approximately 45% of U.S. daily consumption.

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LNG World News Staff, December 18, 2012; Image: El Paso Pipeline