USA: CLNG Urges Congress to Let DOE Do Its Job When Considering LNG Exports

The Center for Liquefied Natural Gas (CLNG) has sent a letter to congressional energy leadersurging them to support the congressionally-established regulatory process for considering LNG export applications.

“DOE has the tools in place to manage the flow of natural gas supplies in and out of the U.S. and has made it clear that they will address concerns regarding domestic needs without harming the economy,” said Bill Cooper, president of the Center for Liquefied Natural Gas.

“Unless DOE finds that an export application is not consistent with the public interest, then the burden is on those opposed to LNG exports to provide evidence beyond mere conjecture and innuendo.”

In the letter, Cooper urges Congress not to allow opponents of LNG export applications to seek redress in order to prematurely circumvent the administrative permitting process. This process was established by Congress whereby the federal agency can gather evidence, hear public comments, hold hearings, and make a determination based upon the guidance provided to it by the statute.

“The regulatory process for considering LNG exports is working,” Cooper continues. “DOE should be allowed to do its job within the boundaries established by the Congress as set forth in the Natural Gas Act.”

[mappress]
Source: CLNG, September 14, 2011;