WASHINGTON, Feb 15 (Reuters): US President Donald Trump's administration said on Friday it has granted a liquefied natural gas export license to the Commonwealth LNG project in Louisiana, the first approval of LNG exports after former President Joe Biden paused them early last year. The exports are approved to go to markets in Asia and Europe.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright, whose agency is responsible for approving the shipments, said exporting US LNG "strengthens the US economy and supports American jobs while bolstering energy security around the world."
The US is trying to increase its LNG exports to help reduce Europe's dependency on Russian gas.
after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine three years ago.
Trump ordered a lifting of the freeze on LNG export approvals the day he came into office for a second time on January 20.
Commonwealth LNG, which has waited longer than any other company for its permit, wants to build a 9.5 million metric ton per annum export plant in Louisiana to sell to countries that do not have a free trade agreement with the US
"Today's actions demonstrate that President Trump is prioritizing the American energy industry and we are both pleased and grateful to have achieved these important regulatory objectives," said Commonwealth CEO Farhad Ahrabi.
Trump okays LNG exports, creates energy council to boost US oil, gas
FE Team | Published: February 15, 2025 21:33:46
Trump okays LNG exports, creates energy council to boost US oil, gas
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