Central Montana Times

U.S. Senator Steve Daines has criticized the Biden administration for pausing all pending non-FTA export permit applications, claiming that it was done at the behest of the radical climate lobby. Daines, along with 25 Republican colleagues, wrote a letter to President Biden and Department of Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm expressing their concerns about the potential consequences of the administration's actions.

In their letter, the senators emphasized the importance of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports for both the domestic and global economy. They highlighted the role of U.S. LNG exports as a vital lifeline for countries in Europe and around the world. They pointed out that nearly half of U.S. LNG exports have been delivered to Europe, with a significant increase in exports following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The senators stressed that limiting U.S. LNG exports could have severe consequences. They argued that European leaders would be forced to choose between depriving their citizens of energy or funding Russia's war on Ukraine if U.S. LNG exports were curtailed. Furthermore, they warned that limiting American LNG exports in the name of stopping climate change could actually add to global emissions.

The senators also highlighted the geopolitical importance of U.S. LNG exports. They noted that American LNG exports have enhanced the United States' influence and energy security since 2016. They pointed to the impact of U.S. LNG on energy security in Asia, with Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and India being major importers. The senators argued that stable and secure supplies of U.S. LNG are critical to these countries' energy security.

Additionally, the senators emphasized that U.S. LNG exports are uniquely positioned to decrease global emissions. They pointed out that China and India, two of the largest polluters globally, are top destinations for U.S. LNG exports. They argued that efforts to limit U.S. LNG exports would hinder the ability to reduce emissions through the use of clean-burning natural gas.

Finally, the senators highlighted the significant economic benefits of U.S. LNG exports. They cited a study that projected increased exports of U.S. LNG could create over 450,000 jobs and increase GDP by $73 billion. They urged President Biden and Secretary Granholm to champion American LNG exports and recognize the environmental, economic, and national security benefits they bring.

In conclusion, Senator Daines and his colleagues are urging the Biden administration to reconsider its pause on non-FTA LNG export permit applications. They believe that limiting U.S. LNG exports would have negative economic, environmental, and national security consequences both domestically and globally. They argue that American LNG exports play a crucial role in supporting energy security, reducing emissions, and fueling economic growth.