Article Summary –
Over 150 House Republicans issued a letter on February 4 urging President Joe Biden to end the recently implemented pause on permitting liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. The Biden administration announced its decision on January 26, citing the standards used to evaluate permits, potential energy cost increases, and the impact of greenhouse gas emissions. A study released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration in May 2023 found that increased exports of LNG cause domestic prices to rise.
Republicans urge Biden to revoke LNG export pause
Over 150 House Republicans asked President Biden on Feb. 4 to reverse a recent pause on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export permits. Critics argue that LNG exports increase domestic energy costs and contribute to global climate change.
Key figures in the appeal
House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair, Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), along with Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), spearheaded the letter, which depicted the pause as “economically and strategically perilous and needless.” All GOP members of Michigan’s House delegation endorsed the appeal.
Impact of the pause
The Biden administration temporarily halted approvals on Jan. 26, citing outdated standards for permit evaluations. The current standards, per the administration, fail to sufficiently account for potential energy cost increases and the most recent understanding of greenhouse gas emissions’ impact.
US as a leading LNG exporter
The White House reiterated that the US remains the leading global exporter of LNG and the pause wouldn’t affect prior commitments to support allied nations. It aligns with the administration’s aim to cut back greenhouse gas emissions, a major factor in global climate change.
Effects of increased LNG exports
A U.S. Energy Information Administration study from May 2023, and a report from the Center for American Progress in November 2023, both found that increasing LNG exports lead to higher costs for American households using natural gas.
Environmentalists’ stance on the pause
Environmental advocates lauded the pause when it was first announced. Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous praised the decision, calling it a win for communities combating LNG’s dangers. Former Vice President Al Gore also praised the move as a promising sign of the transition away from fossil fuels.
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