New Map Tool Tracks LNG Export Issue

Mark Green
Posted October 10, 2013

Check out API’s new web-based interactive map that can be used to track U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects, including those waiting for federal approval.  The map shows the location of the proposed projects, and clicking on the respective balloons opens a window with detailed information about the project’s export capacity, jobs that could be created, capital investment and more. Shrink the map down a bit and you can see proposed international LNG export projects.  

Tracking these projects is important as U.S. policymakers work through the export issue. While the Energy Department has approved four projects over the past two and a half years – including three this year – more than 20 remain on hold, delaying benefits to the U.S. in terms of jobs, economic stimulus and an improved trade balance. Erik Milito, API director of upstream and industry operations:

“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. 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 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 more than $3 billion in capital investments and create more than 3,000 construction and engineering jobs. The application was submitted in December 2011. Milito:

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