The narrative that liquified natural gas (LNG) exports are directly linked to natural gas prices here in the U.S. continues to circulate, but such assertions ignore contrary evidence. There is no correlation, and blaming LNG for high electricity bills is a scapegoat used by lawmakers to hide poor policy decisions that are actually contributing factors.
LNG benefits the U.S. and world at large; attempts to curtail exports are misguided. Regulators should look to solve the real issues negatively impacting natural gas prices rather than indicting an entire industry.
LNG is a booming enterprise that began a mere decade ago, when the first cargo from the continental U.S. departed Sabine Pass for Brazil on Feb. 24, 2016. Fast forward to today where the U.S. is the global leader, exporting to more than 40 countries and contributing roughly $44 billion each year to the economy.
People are concerned about natural gas prices because of LNG flourishing, but they needn’t be.
Kristen Walker is Senior Policy Analyst and Manager for Energy and Transportation with the American Consumer Institute, a nonprofit education and research organization. Follow ACI on X @ConsumerPal.