• November 17, 2017

    Partnering to Find New Opportunities for U.S. Natural Gas

    Matt Letourneau

This morning, the Global Energy Institute hosted the U.S. Trade Development Authority (USTDA), LNG Allies and others at U.S. Chamber Headquarters for the launch of the U.S. Gas Infrastructure Exports Initiative.  The goal of the initiative is to connect American companies to new export opportunities, with a particular focus on emerging economies.

The event started with a welcome from GEI president and CEO Karen Harbert, who recalled her days at the Department of Energy when natural gas was a scarce resource in the U.S.—a far cry from today.   USTDA acting director Thomas Hardy then discussed the agency’s goal of using American technology and innovation to advance gas infrastructure in partner countries, while providing new opportunities for U.S. companies.

As part of the Initiative, USTDA announced a call for gas-related project proposals for U.S. companies that have identified project sponsors in high growth emerging markets.  The Agency will be conducting gas sector reverse trade missions to bring prospective LNG buyers to the U.S. for site visits and meetings.  Delegates from Senegal, China and others are already slated to participate.

Another key Initiative partner is the 27th World Gas Conference, which will be held in Washington, D.C. from June 25-29, 2018.  Next year’s conference will mark the first time that the event has been held in a country that is both the world’s largest gas consumer and producer.  Thousands of trade visitors and delegates are expected to attend, and speakers will include top names in industry and government.

GEI is a natural partner for the Exports Initiative.  We are strong advocates for policies and activities that strengthen America’s global energy leadership, which is good for both our economy and for global security.  The continued export of American natural gas creates opportunities at home and contributes to stability abroad. 

For more information on the Initiative, visit www.ustda.gov/program/us-gas-infrastructure-exports-initative