Climatedepot.com Executive Director Marc Morano discusses the impact on American energy from the Biden administration’s halt of liquefied natural gas projects and reacts to Davos saying that drinking coffee causes climate change. A wide range of Republicans, including former Energy Secretary Rick Perry, excoriated President Biden for his decision to pause proposed liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects over its economic impacts and potential to boost U.S. enemies.
Republicans argue that LNG exports are crucial for maintaining low energy prices in the U.S., supporting American allies to reduce their reliance on Russian gas, and decreasing global carbon emissions. Former Energy Secretary Rick Perry, who led the Department of Energy under the Trump administration, emphasized the importance of diversifying energy suppliers during his tenure and criticized Biden’s decision.
President Biden’s order to pause pending permits for LNG export facilities came as a major victory for climate activists who have long advocated for such action. They argue that LNG projects contribute to carbon emissions and exacerbate the climate crisis. In a statement, President Biden called the pause on LNG permitting a part of his sweeping climate agenda, acknowledging the urgency of the climate crisis.
However, Republicans view this decision as prioritizing radical activists over U.S. energy security and the security of American allies. They argue that it empowers America’s adversaries, such as China and Russia, and undermines global energy markets. Republicans also criticize the administration for disregarding the commitments made to reduce Europe’s dependence on Russia and strengthen energy security, as announced in the joint US-EU Task Force.
The impact of Biden’s decision on specific proposed projects is yet to be determined. Some projects have already received approval from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) but are not under construction, while others are still pending before FERC or in the pre-filing stage. Environmentalists support the halt on LNG exports, while Republicans argue that it will negatively affect American energy production, national security, and global energy markets.
Proponents of increased LNG exports highlight the role of natural gas in reducing carbon emissions and meeting decarbonization goals. They argue that transitioning to natural gas would help decrease reliance on coal-fired power generation, which has a larger carbon footprint. The U.S. has been a leader in carbon emissions reductions, thanks in part to greater reliance on natural gas.
Critics of Biden’s decision, including Senate Republicans, warn that limiting American LNG exports could lead to higher global emissions. They argue that countries like Russia and Iran would increase energy production with fewer environmental regulations, offsetting any emissions reductions achieved through reduced LNG exports.
The debate over Biden’s decision reflects broader divisions between Republicans and Democrats regarding energy policies, climate change, and the role of big corporations and big pharma. Republicans accuse Biden of bowing to environmental lobby groups and prioritizing politics over climate science, while Democrats stress the urgency of addressing the climate crisis.
As the pause on LNG permitting takes effect, concerns over energy security, economic impacts, and environmental considerations continue to shape the discussion. The outcome of this decision will have implications for American energy production, global energy markets, and the relationship with U.S. allies.
