The US energy landscape is shifting as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office, vowing to undo the Biden administration’s moratorium on liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. A draft report released by the Energy Department has fueled the debate, warning of potential negative impacts on Americans if the moratorium is lifted.
The report concludes that LNG exports could lead to a 30% rise in US energy prices and contribute to higher carbon emissions. Industry officials have pushed back, dismissing the report as “politically motivated” and claiming it fails to account for the role of LNG in offsetting emissions from other fossil fuels.
However, environmental groups are criticizing the administration’s approach, saying it is too weak and focused on pleasing special interests. Food & Water Watch has labeled the report “weak and half-hearted,” urging President Biden to ban further LNG exports before leaving office.
As Russia’s war in Ukraine sparks new demand for LNG, industry experts expect US sales of chilled natural gas to continue booming. The US has become the world’s No. 1 exporter of LNG, with current capacity set to double by the end of the decade.
President-elect Trump has repeatedly pledged to lift the LNG pause and “unleash” US energy exports, promising lower energy costs for Americans. Industry groups have welcomed this promise, while environmentalists remain concerned about the potential impact on climate change.
The Energy Department’s report analysis is open for a 60-day comment period, allowing stakeholders to weigh in on the issue before Trump takes office. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the future of US energy policy hangs in the balance.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/wrong-headed-energy-industry-leaders-blast-biden-admin-report-natural-gas-exports