Future Supply and Emerging Resources
Liquefied Natural Gas
LNG Basics
A small percentage of U.S. natural gas supplies are imported and received as liquefied natural gas (LNG). LNG is principally used for transporting natural gas to markets. LNG is produced by taking natural gas from a production field, removing impurities, and liquefying the natural gas. The LNG is loaded onto double-hulled ships which are used for both safety and insulating purposes. Once the ship arrives at the receiving port, the LNG is typically off-loaded into well-insulated storage tanks. Regasification is used to convert the LNG back into its gas form, which enters the domestic pipeline distribution system and is ultimately delivered to the end-user.
There are currently twelve LNG import terminals located along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. In 2011, the United States imported 349 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of LNG from seven different exporting countries, with the largest being Trinidad and Tobago. Imports in 2011 decreased by 19 percent from 431 Bcf in 2010. Due to increased domestic production, LNG imports are expected to continue to decrease.
DOE's Role
The Department of Energy has regulatory, policy, and technology responsibilities related to LNG. The Office of Fossil Energy issues authorizations to import and export natural gas, by pipeline or as LNG, and conducts a data collection program to report annual and monthly levels of U.S. natural gas imports and exports.
FE's Office of Oil and Natural Gas supports the development and deployment of technologies that will ensure the safety and surety of LNG vessel transport. Areas of focus include efforts to expand the public’s understanding and acceptance of LNG, LNG safety, and R&D focused on advanced technologies for safe and efficient transportation and storage of LNG.
More Information [external site -Federal Energy Regulatory Commission]
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