DOE Extends Additional LNG Export Authorizations Through 2050
In an important development for American natural gas both here at home and for our allies abroad, the U.S. Department of Energy last week extended the terms of three long-term liquefied natural gas (LNG) export authorizations through 2050. This comes after President Trump issued a final policy statement earlier last month that allows LNG exports to non-FTA countries to be extended through 2050, a change from the current practice of granting 20-year export terms.
As DOE reports:
The term extensions issued today include Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass and Corpus Christi LNG export terminals, operating in Louisiana and Texas, respectively, and Sempra Energy’s Port Arthur LNG project proposed for Port Arthur, Texas. These issuances extend each project’s long-term LNG export authorization to both free trade and non-free trade agreement (non-FTA) countries through December 31, 2050.
As one of the top global exporters of LNG and with U.S. operating export capacity expected to grow by more than 50% in the next five years, U.S. Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette emphasized the significance and benefits of extending the LNG authorizations:
“The Trump Administration understands the importance of securing American energy jobs and creating opportunities for growth in the energy sector. The development of natural gas in the United States provides tens of thousands of jobs and leads to the investment of tens of billions of dollars in infrastructure development. This policy will sustain these long-term benefits.”
It is important commonsense policy – like the extension of LNG export authorizations – move forward in this critical time. Bolstering American energy capabilities is key to economic growth, energy security, national security, and providing a reliable, affordable, and cleaner energy source for our allies around the globe.
