President Biden pauses LNG infrastructure development: Rethinking the gas boom for climate and security.
In a significant move, the Biden administration has declared a temporary halt on approving new permits for liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facilities, signaling a shift away from unrestrained fossil fuel expansion towards prioritizing climate concerns. This decision marks a departure from the industry-friendly approach of previous administrations and underscores the current administration’s commitment to addressing the climate crisis.
For years, the oil and gas sector has advocated for the unhindered growth of America’s LNG exports, arguing that these projects create jobs and replace dirtier coal overseas. However, evidence suggests that LNG exports may lead to higher domestic energy prices while substituting cleaner energy sources abroad. Contrary to industry claims, shipments often bypass allies in Europe, revealing a gap between rhetoric and reality.
Beneath the industry spin, the true climate impacts of natural gas come to light. The production and consumption of natural gas result in significant methane leaks, a greenhouse gas that is 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. When these leaks are considered, natural gas can outpace coal in terms of warming potential. Unchecked methane release poses a severe threat to global climate goals.
See also: Developers Cancel Oregon Pipeline and LNG Export Terminal.
The Biden administration’s decision to pause new permits puts the brakes on over a dozen proposed multi-billion dollar gas export terminals along the Gulf of Mexico. These “mega projects” would unleash annual emissions equivalent to the entire European Union, exceeding 3 billion tons if fully realized. The temporary pause provides a crucial window to reassess the criteria used to evaluate the climate impacts of such massive LNG initiatives.
Climate activists, who have long warned of the dangers posed by unbridled fossil fuel expansion, celebrated the announcement. Louisiana organizer Roishetta Ozane remarked, “This is a powerful statement that we can no longer allow these industries to continue operating without considering the health and safety of the people living in these areas.” It signifies a willingness on the part of the White House to listen to the concerns of communities affected by these projects.
However, the battle is far from over. Republicans persist in advocating for increased drilling and exports, with former President Donald Trump pledging further fossil fuel expansion if reelected. Industry groups, echoing these sentiments, warn that the pause will strengthen Russian influence in Europe. Yet, existing export capacity already outpaces shipments to allies, casting doubt on this argument. The oil and gas lobby is expected to continue exerting pressure on the administration to reverse its decision.
While the brakes are applied for now, the Biden administration has pledged to take a “hard look” at the multifaceted consequences of the LNG boom, including its impact on energy costs and environmental justice. The move indicates a recognition that the existential threat of climate change can no longer be ignored in favor of industry interests. This pause opens the door for more nuanced conversations around just transitions and a sustainable energy future.
It is important to note that the pause does not completely close the door to new LNG projects deemed to be in the national interest. With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Biden remains aligned with boosting LNG shipments to Europe in the name of security. The change lies in acknowledging that unbridled oil and gas expansion poses a severe threat to both Americans and the planet.
The extreme warming power of methane and the scale of emissions from proposed terminals present tough choices for policymakers. Will short-term profits and political considerations prevail over the well-being of communities and the global climate? The next moves made by President Biden and his successor will determine whether the LNG surge is genuinely halted or merely paused. For advocates of climate action, the hard work continues as they push for a more sustainable and resilient future.
