A new study by the US Energy Department has outlined the economic and environmental risks of increased liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, potentially complicating President-elect Donald Trump’s plans to approve more terminals.
The study found that LNG exports could drive up energy costs in America, exposing the domestic market to international pricing. It also estimated that an increase in exports could lead to a relatively modest increase in global greenhouse gas emissions, amounting to 711 million metric tons of carbon-dioxide-equivalent between 2020 and 2050.
However, the study’s authors noted that these calculations are highly uncertain, and that LNG exports can potentially reduce emissions if they displace dirtier fossil fuels. The Energy Department also expressed concern over the potential local effects on communities along the Gulf Coast, where construction of new terminals could exacerbate existing pollution problems.
Environmental groups praised the report, while the oil and gas industry criticized it for its findings. The Biden administration had previously ordered a pause in approving new export terminals after protests by climate activists, but the study’s release may impact future plans for LNG expansion.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/17/climate/natural-gas-lng-export-risks-united-states.html