WASHINGTON, May 17, 2013 ─ Erik Milito, API director of upstream and industry operations, called on the Department of Energy to quickly expedite all remaining applications for permits to export liquefied natural gas (LNG) to countries that do not have free trade agreements (FTA) with the U.S.

“One export permit is a step in the right direction, but many more job and revenue creating projects are still waiting for approval. DOE should now move forward with the approval of the remaining applications without delay because the law presumes that all applications should be granted.

“It is abundantly clear that exports to the world market generate benefits for Americans, and also for our strategic allies, including those in Europe, Asia, and South and Central America.

“DOE has had the remaining applications on its desk for months and should ensure that these applications are approved without any further delay so that the U.S can achieve its full energy and economic potential.”

LNG exports would spur strong growth in U.S. GDP but U.S. companies face considerable competition for LNG sales abroad, with at least 63 international LNG export projects currently planned or under construction. U.S. LNG exports could create tens of thousands of domestic jobs while having only minimal impacts on domestic U.S. natural gas prices, according to a recent report by ICF International.

API is a national trade association that represents all segments of America’s technology-driven oil and natural gas industry. Its more than 500 members – including large integrated companies, exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms – provide most of the nation’s energy. The industry also supports 9.2 million U.S. jobs and 7.7 percent of the U.S. economy, delivers $85 million a day in revenue to our government, and, since 2000, has invested over $2 trillion in U.S. capital projects to advance all forms of energy, including alternatives.