WASHINGTON – The Biden administration is suspending approval of pending applications export of liquefied natural gas The US cited environmental concerns about climate change as the main reason for the move to countries without a free trade agreement.
While the temporary suspension remains in effect, the Department of Energy is expected to evaluate and update the guidance used to issue permits. The economic and environmental analyzes the department currently uses are about five years old, the White House said in a fact sheet Friday.
The White House said they “no longer adequately consider considerations such as potential energy cost increases for American consumers and producers beyond existing permits or the most recent assessment of the impact of greenhouse gas emissions.”
The moratorium allows exceptions to be made for unforeseen and immediate national security emergencies.
President Joe Biden said in a statement that his administration would seriously review “the impact of LNG exports on energy costs” and “America’s energy security and our environment” during this period.
“This pause in new LNG approvals sees the climate crisis for what it is: the existential threat of our time,” he said. “While MAGA Republicans willfully deny the reality of the climate crisis by condemning the American people to a dangerous future, my Administration will not be complacent. We will not give in to special interests.”
According to the White House, the United States is the largest exporter of LNG worldwide, and nearly half of exports went to Europe last year. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm said the break “will not affect exports that have already been authorized, nor will it affect our ability to supply our allies in Europe, Asia or our already authorized export buyers.”
“We remain committed to meeting the medium-term energy needs of our partners,” he added. “And if necessary, the department can determine whether there are exceptions for national security needs.”
Liquefied natural gas is natural gas that has been cooled to a liquid state for transportation and storage. Department of Energy. Any company wishing to export natural gas is required to obtain a permit from the department’s Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management.
Caroline Kenny contributed.