AGA, Congressman Pfluger Condemn Biden Admin’s LNG Export Report

WASHINGTON – Industry leaders and elected officials are criticizing a report released by the Biden Administration on liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, calling it a “reckless” decision that creates market uncertainty.

The American Gas Association (AGA) and U.S. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) issued statements on Tuesday, condemning the Department of Energy’s (DOE) findings, which they say justify restricting LNG exports. Pfluger labeled the study “politicized and reckless,” while AGA CEO Karen Harbert called the report an “inexplicable attempt” to defend a harmful policy.

Harbert warned that the administration’s stance limits the global supply of “life-essential energy” and undermines energy security for America’s allies.

“America’s allies are suffering from the weaponization of natural gas and energy deprivation,” she said, adding that the organization looks to the incoming administration to address the issue.

Pfluger argued that LNG exports are critical to global markets, particularly Europe and Asia, which face rising energy costs following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“In December 2023, more than 87% of U.S. LNG exports went to the European Union, United Kingdom, or Asian markets,” he said, noting the report contradicts allies’ calls to reverse restrictions.

Critics say the DOE’s claims of reduced LNG demand lack scientific basis. Pfluger stated that continued restrictions could cause LNG demand in Asia to drop by 30% by 2035, resulting in reliance on cleaner but less reliable energy alternatives.

The Biden Administration’s pause on LNG exports began nearly a year ago, sparking backlash from industry advocates and lawmakers who argue the move harms U.S. economic interests.

Pfluger called on Congress to step in, saying, “The U.S. can and should rise to the occasion.”

Harbert highlighted the role of natural gas in reducing emissions and ensuring energy affordability, arguing the focus should remain on building infrastructure to meet domestic and global energy needs.

Here is Pfluger's full statement: 

"Today’s study released by the Biden-Harris White House regarding liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports is politicized and reckless. Almost a year ago, the Administration illegally banned LNG exports to cater to climate activists—ignoring science and our allies' needs in the process. It is beyond disappointing to see this trend continue as Biden leaves the White House. 

"In December 2023, more than 87% of U.S. LNG exports went to the European Union, United Kingdom, or Asian markets, and helped lower natural gas prices in Europe by over 83% following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Since the ban, Russia overtook the U.S. as the lead supplier of gas to Europe. 

"In the study’s summary, DOE claims the demand for increased exports does not exist. Our allies—the nations that have had the most to lose during this ban—have said otherwise. Thiry-five members of the European Parliament urged a reversal of the ban, arguing that the policy undermines Western order. Additionally, it is forecasted that if the ban continues, higher prices could cause Asia’s LNG demand to drop by 30% through 2035, forcing much of the region to turn to less clean sources. Demand for LNG will exist, despite the reckless whims of climate cronies and a complicit DOE. The question is: does the Administration want the U.S. to supply it, or Iran, Russia, or Qatar? 

"Even DOE itself has previously admitted significant energy demand increases. What has changed since those statements? The political motive behind this study is clear. 

"LNG exports unequivocally benefit our economy and domestic prices. Clean natural gas is a leading reason why the U.S. has reduced emissions more than any other nation and aided our allies in the process. In 2025, Congress must act to remove the reckless DOE from having a role in approving LNG export licenses. The U.S. can and should rise to the occasion."