API Launches Map of U.S. LNG Export Projects

API launched a new web-based map tracking liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects, including those waiting for approval from the federal government. According to Erik Milito, director of upstream and industry operations, approval of the multi-billion dollar export terminals could create thousands of American jobs, strengthen the U.S. geopolitical position, reduce global emissions, and help the Obama administration to meet its promise to double American exports.

“America is leading the world in natural gas production, but to unlock the full economic benefits for U.S. workers, the Department of Energy must act quickly on the permits needed to sell our exports abroad,” said Milito.

“Accelerating the approval process would send a strong signal that the administration is serious about doubling U.S. exports and help to generate the economic benefits the president is seeking.”

The online API LNG export map displays a summary of investments, exports, and jobs associated with each application to sell LNG to countries that do not have free trade agreements with the United States. Terminals are listed in the order that the DOE expects to review the projects, along with how long each has waited for approval. Also listed are the four U.S. export sites approved since 2011, as well as 63 competing sites planned or under construction in foreign nations.

“There is a global race to build this infrastructure and secure a competitive position in the international market,” said Milito. “These terminals would allow other nations to purchase a valuable American product, support U.S. exports, and help reduce global emissions.”

Currently, there are 21 pending applications, including sites in Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, Oregon, and Mississippi. The next site expected to be reviewed is on Quintana Island near Freeport, Texas, where the applicant is requesting added export capacity for a facility that will attract $3 billion in capital investments and create over 3,000 construction and engineering jobs.

Milito also noted that U.S. LNG exports could create tens of thousands of domestic jobs while having only minimal impacts on domestic U.S. natural gas prices, according to several studies, including a recent report by ICF International.

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LNG World News Staff, October 11, 2013