ANGA Blog

ANGA Members Emphasize Safe and Responsible Development, Highlight Effectiveness of State Regulation

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a comment by Marty Durbin, President and Chief Executive Officer for America’s Natural Gas Alliance, on today’s natural gas roundtable on shale development, environmental protection and best practices before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

“As the committee continues this important conversation to identify how we can maximize the economic and environmental benefits of our nation’s natural gas reserves, ANGA member-company participants will highlight their ongoing commitment to safe and responsible development, while demonstrating the successful role states are playing to regulate natural gas production.

“Innovative technology is what brought us this great opportunity for a better energy future, and our industry continues to innovate in ways that significantly reduce water usage, increase water recycling, minimize truck traffic, reduce air emissions and limit local impacts.

“ANGA companies have worked effectively with states, whose regulators are best positioned to account for the geology, water issues and infrastructure needs within their borders. We are already regulated by numerous federal statutes, and it is appropriate that the states oversee the operations of natural gas producers, in part because they have been doing so effectively for many decades. This roundtable offers the natural gas community a chance to highlight the steps we take every day to safely and responsibly produce this critical energy resource.

“We look forward to working with committee members as they consider how our nation’s natural gas abundance can help us move toward an energy future that takes full advantage of this clean, abundant and domestic resource.”

ANGA CEO Durbin Makes Push On “Incredible Opportunity” For Exports

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Highlighting the enormous economic potential for exporting American natural gas, ANGA CEO Marty Durbin has been making the rounds, citing two new key studies on the issue.

On a recent segment for Fox Business News, Marty cut to the chase: "I see absolutely no reason that we shouldn't give ourselves the opportunity to be a part of the global market for this resource."

And he couldn't be more right; all signs point to a more robust American economy with continuing steady prices for this abundant and domestic fuel. A report from the Bipartisan Policy Center concludes that even with higher industrial demand, increased exports of natural gas will have no significant impact on domestic prices. In fact, with prices forecasted by the EIA to remain low and steady through at least 2035, major investments in American manufacturing are being made—from chemicals and plastics to fertilizers and more.

The American Chemistry Council just released a study highlighting 97 investment projects that will utilize America’s newfound abundance of shale gas. The combined value of these new investments tops nearly $72 billion dollars, and could create 46,000 chemical industry jobs by 2020.

On National Journal’s Energy Expert blog, Durbin urged the Obama Administration to "pick up the pace” on approvals for export projects. Describing the support of natural gas exports as a "no-brainer," Durbin cited an improved U.S. trade balance and billions of dollars in economic benefits and new jobs, including the president’s own goal of doubling exports, as just a few reasons why exporting our own energy resources makes sense for the U.S. economy.

Our abundant supplies of natural gas present us with an opportunity to compete in a global economy while also powering our domestic energy demands for generations to come. Think about it.

ANGA to Senate Energy Committee: Vast Supplies Make Export of Natural Gas a Clear Choice

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a comment by Marty Durbin, President and Chief Executive Officer for America's Natural Gas Alliance on today's natural gas roundtable before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

"The committee's focus on domestic supply and exports comes at a particularly good time given our growing understanding of America's vast supplies of clean and affordable natural gas.

"The Potential Gas Committee recently published a record high supply estimate. Last week, the Energy Department gave conditional approval for an LNG export facility in Freeport Texas, which we hope will lead to rapid approvals for other similar facilities. And just yesterday, the Bipartisan Policy Center issued a report concluding that the United States has ample supplies to meet foreseeable electricity and industrial demand growth, and allow for exports without any significant impact on domestic prices.

"With this game-changing opportunity, selling natural gas into the global market will improve the U.S. trade balance, deliver jobs here at home and help the President achieve his goal of doubling all exports. We look forward to working with Committee members as they consider how our natural gas abundance can bring environmental, energy security and economic benefits to America and strengthen our position in the world economy."

ANGA Statement on DOE Authorization of Freeport LNG Terminal

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

“While this is a positive step, we would like for the administration to pick up the pace of approvals so that the markets can decide which projects go forward. Experts ranging from the Energy Department, to the Brookings Institution, to Deloitte and others have all examined the potential impact of natural gas exports on our economy, and have identified a wide range of benefits.

“Selling natural gas into the global market will improve the U.S. trade balance, deliver net jobs and economic benefits here at home and help the President achieve his goal of doubling all exports. Study after study shows that expanding natural gas exports will bring all of these benefits while keeping domestic prices stable and affordable.

“The Energy Department was right to conclude that approving this terminal is in the public interest and we hope many others will follow quickly.”

Weathering an Emergency with Some Help from Natural Gas

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

While millions of New Yorkers were left without power in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, New York University (NYU) was able to keep its buildings and facilities operating, using natural gas to produce a reliable source of electricity and heat through the process of cogeneration.

Shortly after the storm passed, Matt Wald reported in a New York Times' Green blog that NYU installed its cogeneration power network in 2011 to lower energy costs and reduce the school's carbon footprint. But during Hurricane Sandy, the investment paid off in unexpected ways.

As Wald reported, when a large swath of the region went dark, NYU became its own island within the large island of Manhattan as the school's power system disconnected from the Con Edison grid and relied instead on its cogeneration unit. "We called it island mode," said John J. Bradley, NYU's assistant vice president for sustainability, energy and technical services.

Beyond NYU, natural gas cogeneration plants kept other areas of New York and New Jersey online as well. Andrew Revkin, as part of DotEarth blog, interviewed Thomas Bourgeois, the deputy director of Pace University's Energy and Climate Center about the benefits of using cogeneration plants for power and heat. Thanks to cogeneration, power kept flowing during Hurricane Sandy to One Penn Plaza, a large skyscraper in downtown New York, and also kept dorms and research facilities at Princeton University online, Bourgeois said.

While no power system is completely immune to acts of nature, cogeneration power plants, as demonstrated during the hurricane, can act as an affordable, reliable component of any emergency preparedness plan for cities across the nation. Think about it.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

ANGA Statement on Release of BLM’s Hydraulic Fracturing Proposal

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a comment from Amy Farrell, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs for America’s Natural Gas Alliance, on the release of hydraulic fracturing rules today by the Bureau of Land Management.

“We are reviewing the BLM rules to determine how they will affect our members’ ability to produce this clean, abundant and affordable natural gas resource.

“It is encouraging that the administration revisited its original proposal and appears to have made some favorable changes, including accounting for the expertise and work being done at the state level. We will reserve judgment on the proposal more broadly until we have had a chance to thoroughly evaluate it.

“Our view is that it is essential that the proposal account for the extensive regulatory structures in place in states across this country. Any federal rules should work in concert with substantial regulatory regimes established by the states. State regulators have shown that they best understand the unique geological conditions that exist within their borders, and they have the expertise needed to oversee natural gas development.

“With our industry’s commitment to safe and responsible development and with strong state regulation that provides the public with confidence in our work, America can take full advantage of the many economic, environmental and energy security benefits this domestic energy resource offers.

“We look forward to working with the BLM and Interior Department as it works toward finalizing these rules.”

All Aboard! Freight Rail Giant Testing Natural Gas-Powered Locomotives

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Just how flexible is natural gas? Beyond powering your home heating systems, daily commute vehicles, long-haul trucks and ships at sea, America's own abundant natural gas is now being tested on the rail tracks. BNSF Railway Co., the largest railroad in the U.S. and a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, will begin testing liquefied natural gas (LNG) as a locomotive fuel.

Matthew Rose, BNSF's Chairman and CEO, announced the plans at CERAWeek earlier this year. "The use of liquefied natural gas as an alternative fuel is a potential transformational change for our railroad and for our industry… potentially reducing fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions, thereby providing environmental and energy security benefits to our nation."

Businesses and municipal fleets across the country have already found enormous cost savings by converting their vehicles to natural gas, and the same will soon be said for the railroads.

According to Dow Jones Newswires, BNSF estimates that, after the Navy, it is the second largest consumer of diesel in the U.S. With diesel prices at nearly $4 per gallon compared to just over $2 per gallon for large volume LNG users, the cost savings are game-changing.

Preliminary tests by General Electric and Caterpillar, which are developing the locomotives, indicate that trains powered by natural gas could also travel farther between refueling and have equivalent towing power to diesel. And because trains, like fleet vehicles, travel on fixed routes, building a fueling infrastructure for freight rail makes good economic sense.

Beyond the corporate balance sheet, using natural gas is significantly better for our nation’s air quality than conventional alternatives, with fewer nitrogen oxide (NOx) and sulfur dioxide (Sox) emissions and no diesel particulates.

Thanks to decisions by BNSF and other industrial users to power with natural gas, the journey to a cleaner energy future may be just down the tracks. Think about it.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

American Energy Powering American Jobs

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The word is out, and the international business community now sees the United States making investments, building factories and producing goods.

A Washington Post article highlighted the trend, noting that the “plunging price of natural gas in the United States has European companies setting sail across the Atlantic to stay competitive.”

Beyond powering our homes and vehicles, natural gas plays a critical role in manufacturing processes, either as energy to produce a bevy of products such as steel and paper or as a feedstock to produce chemicals, fertilizers and plastics.

And the capital being invested is astounding. More than $20 billion in manufacturing projects will come online by 2015. And those are just the ones that have had capital value attached to them. There are many more, covering a geographic region ranging from the Gulf Coast to the Ohio Valley.

Chemical giant BASF invested $5.7 billion in new North American ventures; Shell is on track to build a $2 billion ethylene cracker plant in Pennsylvania, ZEEP/Todd Corp announced $1.3 billion for a new Louisiana-based methanol production facility, and Vallourec and U.S. Steel have already opened over $1 billion in steel production facilities across Ohio.

These investments will help produce one million new manufacturing jobs by 2025, according to a recent study by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the National Association of Manufacturers. An additional study by the American Chemistry Council finds that the petrochemical manufacturers alone could support over 400,000 jobs assuming $16.2 billion in capital investment over several years. We are well on track to achieve this capital expenditure by 2015.

While no one sector can claim sole responsibility for reviving our economy, development of our natural gas resources is fueling America’s very own manufacturing renaissance. Access to affordable and stable energy prices on U.S. shores is definitely giving businesses something to think about.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Cleaner Transportation, Powered with Natural Gas

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

All over the country, public transportation systems move hundreds of thousands of riders on a daily basis. These fleets represent a significant portion of public dollars, largely due to the unpredictable price of fuel. But now public transit systems can rely on a cleaner and more economical fuel – natural gas – thanks to our abundant domestic supply.

Los Angeles made the transition to natural gas buses, and has seen significant benefits as a result. In fact, LA Metro is a prime example of the positive change that can come from adding natural gas to a region’s transportation sector. LA Metro has the largest fleet of clean compressed natural gas (CNG) buses in the nation—approximately 2,200. After purchasing its first natural gas bus in 1995, the system retired its last diesel bus in 2011. Annually, LA Metro buses run about 1.5 billion miles a year and as of 2011, LA Metro estimates that its natural gas fleet has collectively driven more than one billion miles.

What was behind LA Metro’s decision to change to natural gas? Reducing emissions while saving on fuel costs. Since converting to natural gas, officials estimate that they have cut the release of particulates from the bus fleet by 80 percent and greenhouse gases by about 300,000 pounds each day. In what was one of America’s most smog-plagued areas, this is especially noteworthy. In addition to the savings for the environment, officials estimate that LA Metro is realizing a 10 to 20 percent operational cost savings on fuel alone. For taxpayers in California’s still struggling economy, every public dollar needs to be stretched for maximum value. Thanks to an abundance of supply at affordable prices, natural gas is delivering value for transit systems across the nation.

But are riders noticing the difference? Well if you ask Lizette, one regular LA Metro rider, she’ll tell you about the older buses, noting that “before you could see the smoke and the stuff coming out from the bus and they were louder. They are not as loud and you don't see the smoke which caused the smog in LA,” adding, “It's cleaner now here in LA.”

And Lizette should know: She has been a rider of LA’s buses for 20 years and has seen the visible changes thanks to the transition to natural gas.

Greater use in public transportation is just one example of how natural gas can power major fleets with real benefits. Plus the dual benefits of affordability and significantly lower emissions show that with natural gas, we do not have to choose between powering our growing transportation network and cleaning our environment. Natural gas has allowed Los Angeles to demonstrate that, in fact, even large metro areas can have both.

And that’s worth thinking about.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Demonstrating A Commitment to Transparency by Example

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

ANGA companies developing natural gas report the additives used in their hydraulic fracturing operations using the website FracFocus.org. Maintained by the Groundwater Protection Council (GWPC) and the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC), this website serves as a public registry of hydraulic fracturing fluids with information on a well-by-well basis for operations on both government and private lands.

Launched in April of 2011, FracFocus now lists over 42,000 wells. In addition, the website has had more than 480,000 visits from more than 134 countries. Currently, 12 states either require or allow operators to use FracFocus for the regulatory reporting of the additives used in hydraulic fracturing and an additional nine states are considering using FracFocus for this purpose.

Recently, FracFocus was modified to allow the public to search the website using additional criteria including the ability to search for disclosures based on the dates a well was fractured, the Chemical Abstract Service number, and the chemical name of an ingredient.

In just over two years, FracFocus has proven to be a valuable tool for the general public to learn more about the natural gas operations occurring in their area. FracFocus plans to continue adding features to the site that will increase its value to the public and strengthen transparency.

Thanks to a commitment to safe and responsible development, communities do not have to trade the protection of our air, land and water for the economic advantages offered by affordable, abundant natural gas. Resources like FracFocus strengthen that commitment.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Family Farms, Growing and Sustaining, Thanks to Natural Gas

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Across the country, small family owned and operated farms struggle with the challenges in today’s economy. Whether it is the expense of a new tractor, the fluctuation of crop prices or the costs of raising livestock, the future of family farms that have been passed down from one generation to the next are now at risk in an economy where one bad season or poor harvest could mean financial ruin.

Some farms and ranches have found a solution to keep farms in the family, and generate real, lasting profit. And, it’s thanks to natural gas.

With an abundant supply of natural gas found in shale plays across the country, many farmers and ranchers have leased portions of their land for the development of natural gas. One of those farmers is Keith Burgett, who owns more than 500 livestock and has raised cattle for more than 30 years.

Since leasing his land for natural gas development, Keith now has six active wells on his property developing natural gas. Each well was drilled with protecting the health of the land and groundwater as a priority - all while Keith continues raising cattle.

Natural gas wells are drilled thousands of feet down into shale formations that lie well below local drinking water supplies. The well is reinforced with multiple layers of steel and cement casing that seals off natural gas from aquifers. All of this development occurs under the skilled supervision of state regulators trained to protect local groundwater supplies and air quality. These efforts result in wells that safely produce natural gas without harming the local environment.

Speaking of his own experience, Keith says, “I think natural gas production in our culture of raising cattle can coexist very well.”

The benefits of leasing land for natural gas development are numerous. Keith says, “It also makes it possible for us to send our grandchildren to college and also helped us purchase some more property to grow the size of the farm, and modernize some of our equipment.”

Keith’s experience is just one example of many small family farms that have found that the benefits of natural gas production can coexist with their crops and livestock. Thanks to safe and responsible well development, our abundant natural gas supply helps sustain an industry that is vital to all of us. “The land and water is very important to a farmer. That’s how we make our living and that’s how we pass the land and water back to future generations so land can be productive,” Keith says.

The Burgett farm illustrates that communities and land owners do not have to choose between economic prosperity and protection of the land and environment. We can have both goals with safe natural gas development. If a family farm can produce gas while raising hundreds of cattle each year without contaminated water or damaged land, then how else can natural gas improve our nation’s agricultural economy? This success gives us all something to think about.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Generating Cleaner, Affordable Power with Natural Gas

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Our demands for power are continously growing. To meet expanding demand, electric utilities are turning to clean and American natural gas. Natural gas is cleaner for our environment, and it is an affordable source of power generation for both utility companies and ratepayers. Southern Company and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) are two power generators that realize the value of using more natural gas and are using more of it to meet customer demands.

With more than four million customers across 120,000 square miles, Southern Company can generate nearly 46,000 megawatts of power. In 2007, Southern Company produced about 70 percent of its energy from coal. By 2012, the company cut that number by half to 35 percent and today, natural gas represents 45 percent of Southern Company’s power generation. As part of Southern Company’s leadership in using more natural gas, in 2012, it used close to 600 billion cubic feet (BcF) in generating power, making the company the third largest user of natural gas among U.S. electric utilities.

“That’s good for America – because in addition to its environmental benefits, natural gas is a domestic energy source that can help secure our energy future,” says Southern Company President and Chief Executive Officer Thomas Fanning. And the good news is that Southern Company is not the only utility embracing the greater use of natural gas.

In 2012, TVA began operating the Jon Sevier Combined Cycle power plant, an 880-megawatt facility. The combined cycle plant works as air entering one of the plants three turbines is compressed, mixed with natural gas and then ignited. The hot gas operates a turbine that produces electricity. The residual heat is captured to produce steam and additional electricity. This combined cycle facility is a cleaner asset that helps keep air emissions low while also helping TVA meet the daily demands of serving more than nine million people across seven states.

Southern Company and TVA are two examples of how natural gas is providing affordable, cleaner power to millions of customers. If more utilities switched to natural gas, think about the benefits that could be enjoyed by millions of more customers across the nation.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Greater Natural Gas Use Brings Down Carbon Emissions

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Here’s something to think about: the increased use of natural gas for generating electricity has reduced U.S. power sector carbon emissions to levels not seen since 1992.But don’t take our word for it. The U.S. Energy Information Administration, an independent arm of the U.S. Energy Department, made the finding. In fact, during the first five months of 2012, EIA says carbon-dioxide emissions declined by more than 800 million tons, or 14 percent from their peak high in 2007.

In the past two decades, 57 million additional energy consumers have been added to the U.S. population. This means that U.S. carbon emissions have dropped about 20 percent per capita. As a result, carbon emissions per capita are at their lowest levels since President Eisenhower left office in 1961.

In addition, Ceres, an environmental investment network, examined emissions from a broad spectrum of pollutants. They found that, among the top 100 U.S. power producers, emissions of sulfur dioxide and smog-forming nitrogen oxide were both 68 percent lower than they were in 1990. Nearly half of this reduction took place in just a two-year period-from 2008 to 2010.

Ceres' President Mindy Luber described the report's findings and noted the increased use of natural gas saying:

"This is an historic transition for the electric power industry. More and more power producers are shifting away from coal-fired generation in favor of lower-emitting natural gas-fired plants…"

The Ceres report is available in its entirety here.

While America will need a mix of energy sources to meet growing demand for cleaner electricity, natural gas is already making a difference.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Natural Gas Companies Powering Their Operations with Natural Gas

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The companies that develop our domestic natural gas supplies are committed to finding ways to power their own operations with the same fuel that they produce. One company, Seneca Resources, recently embraced that challenge and announced it has converted two of its Pennsylvania drilling rigs to run on natural gas.

Seneca joins other ANGA companies like Anadarko, Apache, Cabot, Chesapeake, Cimarex, EQT, Newfield and Noble in moving toward using natural gas to power their natural gas production rigs. The use of natural gas will keep costs down for production while also improving the air quality in the communities where these companies are producing.

According to Ensign Energy Services, a company that provides liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered drilling rigs to Seneca Resources and many other companies, the benefits of using natural gas to power their operations are tremendous. Some of the environmental benefits are particularly noteworthy:

Using a dedicated natural gas engine to power a drilling rig has the potential to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 64 tons per year; and

A dedicated natural gas powered drilling rig can reduce particulate matter by 1.7 tons per year.

And keeping costs down is critical for any business to remain competitive in an ever-changing economy. So when coupling the total fuel cost-savings with the environmental benefits natural gas offers, using more of this abundant, domestic resource is a smart and responsible business decision. And over time, this is a trend we are likely to see more of.

Seneca, along with these other ANGA companies, are leading by example by pioneering its operations across the nation with a cleaner, more affordable, domestic fuel alternative. With benefits for the bottom line and the environment, it’s an easy decision that other natural gas producers should think about embracing.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Natural Gas Trucks: A Clean Take on the Business of Trash

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Moving trash can be dirty business. But, thanks to efforts from Waste Management, the process of keeping waste to a minimum has been getting cleaner.

A company with 45,000 employees serving more than 20 million customers, Waste Management provides collection, transfer, recycling and disposal services and has taken significant steps to ensure cleaner operations through the use of natural gas.

In an economy where every dollar has to be maximized, Waste Management now powers its fleet with a fuel that is cleaner, abundant and more affordable – natural gas.

Waste Management deploys the nation’s largest heavy-duty trucks fleet powered by natural gas. In North America alone, it has more than 2,000 trucks moving trash in cities today. Waste Management is also focused on converting its fleet of 18,000 vehicles to run on natural gas.

“This conversion makes good business sense for our company and our shareholders because of the significant maintenance and diesel fuel costs savings,” said Waste Management’s President and Chief Executive Officer, David Steiner. “It’s much cleaner for the environment, and our [compressed natural gas] trucks are much quieter than diesel powered ones.”

Waste Management’s commitment to using natural gas to power its fleet goes beyond just their trucks on the street. To further increase their use of clean natural gas, Waste Management has built a plant that converts landfill gas – the gas which occurs once waste breaks down in a landfill– to liquefied natural gas (LNG) to power 300 of Waste Management’s trucks that service customers in Oakland, San Diego, and in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

LNG is a fuel well-suited for high-horsepower and heavy-duty engines. Waste Management’s Steiner speaks proudly of the facility, saying, “Indeed, I’m very pleased that we have created an environmental closed loop for the City of Oakland, where some of their waste is disposed at our landfill and the resulting landfill gas powers the WM trucks that collect their waste and bring it to our recycling centers and other post-collection facilities.”

The benefits of Waste Management’s natural gas use are not exclusive to the company itself. It also has made clean, affordable natural gas available to customers through investments in public infrastructure projects across the nation. This investment is critical to the greater use of vehicles powered by natural gas for everyday drivers. Waste Management operates 15 publically accessible natural gas fueling stations across North America and, in 2013, the company plans to expand the number of these stations, providing other drivers with an opportunity to access the benefits of natural gas fueled vehicles.

This company leads by example, developing a fleet of trucks that take advantage of our abundant natural gas supplies. In doing so, Waste Management invested in a business solution that keeps fuel costs down while still meeting the needs of their customers in an environmentally conscious way. This leadership illustrates that with natural gas, we do not have to choose between the economic benefits of natural gas and preserving our environment. We can achieve both of these goals.

Making the business of trash cleaner? That is worth thinking about.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Power in Numbers: Governors Demand More NGVs from Auto Manufacturers

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Driving change is never easy, but when you’re joined by 12 of your colleagues in a bipartisan show of solidarity, you’re sure to make an impression.

Governors Mary Fallin of Oklahoma and John Hickenlooper of Colorado have led a group of 13 governors in encouraging major automakers to produce more vehicles that run on domestic natural gas. The governors delivered a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to the CEOs of 19 auto makers asking them to manufacture vehicles fueled by compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

And the governors committed to buy CNG vehicles for their respective state fleets.

"Abundant, affordable, clean-burning natural gas presents a tremendous opportunity for America to realize an energy future using domestic resources to fuel our nation's transportation needs," the governors wrote. "To that end, we are committed to explore the aggregation of our annual state fleet vehicle procurements to provide an incentive to manufacture affordable, functional natural gas vehicles."

So why the big push for natural gas vehicles? The answer is found in the benefits that NGVs offer in lower operational costs and reduced emissions to our environment. Fueling an NGV, costs about half of what it takes to fill up a car powered by gasoline. And the greater use of NGVs also benefits our environment. NGVs emit less smog-producing nitrogen oxide, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide than gasoline-powered vehicles.

This bipartisan team of governors recognizes that their combined purchasing power is one way to encourage auto manufacturers to harness the abundant and affordable natural gas resources right here in America and to seriously consider the value in producing new models not only for state fleets but also to the everyday consumer.

This "power in numbers" can - and will - help jumpstart cleaner transportation choices, and with their powerful collective voice, this gubernatorial team certainly is on the road to a better future with cleaner, more affordable natural gas vehicles.

A bipartisan, affordable solution to fueling public fleets? Sounds like a plan worth thinking about.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Powering America’s Manufacturing Future with Natural Gas

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The loss of manufacturing jobs in America has been the subject of discussion from kitchen tables to the halls of Congress for decades. Going back about three decades when Billy Joel crooned about shutting all the factories down in Allentown, we have been losing manufacturing jobs to other countries. But finally, that’s changing.

Thanks to the abundant supply of domestic natural gas, manufacturing operations are operating, putting people to work and revitalizing communities. The iconic U.S. Steel is just one company benefitting from this manufacturing renaissance.

Thanks to the increase in natural gas production and supply, new demand for steel pipe and other equipment used to develop our domestic natural gas resources continues to grow. U.S. Steel Chairman and CEO John Surma explained, “As industries such as petrochemicals, plastics, fertilizers and others build new factories and infrastructure to take advantage of the new gas supplies, demand for steel of all types should continue to increase.” Surma calls this, “a double-edge plowshare.” Natural gas enables U.S. Steel to operate more efficiently thanks to an abundant energy supply, but also allows it to expand its products to meet demand across several sectors.

The plowshare that Surma describes is already yielding noticeable growth. For example, U.S. Steel invests in its operations and creates jobs when opening a new Quench & Temper finishing facility. Opened in late 2011, this facility provides 100 full-time jobs after a $100 million capital investment in Lorain, Ohio.

Sustained job creation will be essential as our economy continues working toward full recovery. Thanks to our abundant supplies of natural gas, manufacturers such as U.S. Steel maintain a competitive edge, meet the growing demand for steel domestically, and employ more people to meet that demand. As we continue to develop more of our natural gas, we are confident U.S. Steel, and others, will keep growing their manufacturing operations and employing more people. For those going back to work in Lorain, in Allentown and across America, that’s something to think about.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Safe, Responsible Development Preserves Groundwater Integrity

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Earlier this year, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) released findings from a review of 127 domestic water wells to determine the potential effects of natural gas production on groundwater. After analyzing water samples for major ions, trace metals and methane, USGS scientists concluded that the quality of water found in these wells is the result of natural processes.

Here's what the report said:

Although preproduction water-quality data were lacking for the wells sampled for this study, geochemical data presented a well-defined pattern of geochemical evolution based on natural rock-water and microbially mediated processes, strongly suggesting that the resulting water quality is derived from these natural processes with no effects from gas-production activities.

The sampled wells are located in Arkansas' Van Buren and Faulkner Counties, which is part of the Fayetteville Shale – a rich deposit of natural gas located 1,500 to 6,500 feet beneath the surface. Ninety-four of the wells tested were located less than two miles from a gas production well, and 33 were located two miles or more from a gas production well.

The study also found:

No statistical difference between chloride concentrations when comparing wells less than two miles from natural gas production to wells more than two miles from natural gas production.

Of the 51 samples analyzed for methane concentration, only seven samples had a concentration greater than or equal to 0.5 milligrams per liter. Analysis of these samples shows that the methane was likely biogenic in origin.

We encourage people to think about how we develop our energy resources and to ask questions. The findings of this USGS study serve as further evidence that natural gas development can be done and is done safely and responsibly.

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

Uncle Sam Wants You - So Does Natural Gas

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Belkiss Rodriguez is a professional development director at Alamo Colleges who helps train and place students in jobs in and around San Antonio, TX. She works to match the needs of local industries with a skilled workforce. As a military veteran herself, she has first-hand experience with the safety-first training of those who serve, and understands the importance of placing these men and women in the growing natural gas industry. With several military bases in the San Antonio area, there is no shortage of skilled workers.

Recently, Alamo Colleges and the Eagle Ford Shale Consortium were awarded nearly $1.3 million from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board to implement a training program for high-demand occupations in the Eagle Ford Shale area. This effort will assist an estimated 800 adult students find good-paying jobs in the local natural gas industry.

Outside Texas, in the Marcellus shale region, Westmoreland County Community College, Pennsylvania College of Technology, West Virginia Northern Community College, Eastern Gateway Community College in Ohio, and Broome Community College in New York came together and formed Marcellus ShaleNET - a recruitment, training, placement, and retention program for high priority occupations in the natural gas industry. In fact, Support our Troops recently announced a scholarship program to send Ohio veterans through this program. The scholarship will cover books, tuition and training for 40 veterans.

We need a large workforce to develop the resources necessary to fuel America’s expanding energy demands. With a growing number of training programs, a skilled workforce will be ready to develop it safely and responsibly.

Are you thinking about a job in the natural gas industry? Here are links to the Alamo Colleges and ShaleNET training programs:

Visit ThinkAboutIt.org

ANGA Welcomes Committee Focus on Natural Gas Infrastructure

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a comment by Marty Durbin, President and Chief Executive Officer for America’s Natural Gas Alliance on today’s natural gas roundtable before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

“With the game changing opportunity provided by abundant, clean, American natural gas, we are pleased to see the committee exploring the infrastructure necessary to affordably meet our energy needs. This natural gas resource gives our nation tremendous economic, environmental and national security benefits through greater use in power generation, transportation and industrial applications, and we look forward to working with the committee as this important conversation continues.”

Study Finds Natural Gas to Boost Incomes if New York Allows Hydraulic Fracturing

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This week, the Manhattan Institute released a study showing that the incomes of New York residents could be boosted substantially if the state were to allow hydraulic fracturing.

This amounts to leaving opportunities for jobs and economic growth on the sidelines, while neighboring Pennsylvania flourishes. As reported by the Post-Standard in Syracuse:

“Allowing hydrofracking to proceed in New York would be an economic boom that would bring $8 billion of income to Upstate New Yorkers, a new study concludes. If New York lifts its moratorium on hydrofracking, The Manhattan Institute says, income of residents in the 28 counties that lie above the gas-rich Marcellus Shale could rise by 15 percent.”

New York need not choose between economic prosperity and protecting its environment. New York, and the nation, can have both with safe and responsible natural gas development.

The Manhattan Institute’s executive summary can be found here and the full report here.

# # #

Response to Harvard’s 'Legal Fractures in Chemical Disclosure Laws’

Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Members of America’s Natural Gas Alliance are committed to transparency and support public disclosure of the additives used in hydraulic fracturing through Fracfocus.org. In just two years, more than 400 companies have used the FracFocus website to report data on chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing process for more than 41,000 wells.

Our companies take strong exception to the findings in a study by Harvard University entitled, ‘Legal Fractures in Chemical Disclosure Laws’. In particular:

Researchers apparently did not interview any of the state regulators who have incorporated FracFocus into their disclosure regulations. They also did not speak with the Groundwater Protection Council, which manages the FracFocus system.
The Harvard team failed to reflect the true capabilities of the FracFocus system and misrepresents the system’s relationship to state regulatory programs.
FracFocus’ intent was to provide information about chemicals used at well sites across the country, and was not designed as a research tool.

Our members support state-led oversight and we believe that the model put forth by FracFocus is the right one. FracFocus is an important resource that provides the public information about the natural gas industry and its ongoing commitment to safe and responsible development. It also has evolved as a tool to meet the needs of state regulators.

The Harvard University study offers a prime example of how incomplete research and inaccurate conclusions can increase public confusion around not only transparency in the natural gas industry, but also of the legal framework under which that industry practices. Since the release of the study, Harvard has acknowledged comments made by GWPC and said it will consider those comments.

FracFocus not only notifies states of the submission of disclosures and provides them with lists of such disclosures on a routine basis, it allows states to download the data from the disclosures so that it can be incorporated into the states own data system.

By providing a single means of reporting across state boundaries, FracFocus makes it easier for companies to comply with state rules because they do not have to enter data in multiple formats.
It is the responsibility of the state regulatory program, and not FracFocus to act upon Trade Secret claims. The right to make confidentiality claims often makes it possible for companies to put money into research and development of cleaner alternatives for hydraulic fracturing fluids.

Since its inception in April 2011, FracFocus has been adopted as the disclosure reporting regime by a half dozen states, and is being considered for adoption by the Department of Interior as a part of its own pending regulation on hydraulic fracturing and well completions.

As stated in a Forbes article by David Blackmon of FTI Consulting, one of the Harvard report’s main criticisms of the system is that it does not serve as an easily searchable database. FracFocus was never designed as a comprehensive data gathering tool. It was designed to provide well-by-well information to landowners who may have concerns about the content of the fluids used in wells drilled on their land.

For a copy of a more detailed response to the study click here.

NGVs of all sorts Head to Springfield, Illinois

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A diverse line-up of NGVs were represented in Springfield, Illinois as ANGA hosted NGV Day to coincide with audiences who are prime fleet conversion prospects - members of the IL Manufactures Association and The IL Retail Merchants Association who were in the Capitol city for their annual Business Day.

ANGA was front and center at the lunch event encouraging people to take a look at the vehicles. We also met with the IL Environmental Protection Agency Team that oversees state sustainability initiatives and their counterparts at the IL Dept. of Transportation. Legislators viewed the vehicles that included a Ford F250, a Waste Management Garbage Truck, a cement truck from Ozinga, a fourth generation Illinois business, a Chrysler RAM and an NGV powered Springfield Municipal Bus that earlier in the day shuttled members from the conference center to the Capitol.

Lots of positive interest and many follow-up opportunities -- our team is excited about pursuing these! This momentum will continue next week as ANGA participates in Green Drives hosted by the Clean Cities Coalition of Chicago.

ANGA Comments on Departure of David Hayes from the Interior Department

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a comment by Greg Pensabene, acting president and chief executive officer for America's Natural Gas Alliance on David Hayes' decision to step down as deputy secretary at the Interior Department.

"We applaud David Hayes for his public service to this country and for his understanding of the critical issues related to natural gas development. During a time when technological advances associated with natural gas production have created new opportunities for our country, David has emphasized the need for safe and responsible development, while recognizing the important role that this abundant, American fuel plays in improving national security, cleaning the air, and jumpstarting our economy. We wish David well in his future endeavors."

Greater Natural Gas Use Brings Down Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Today's Wall Street Journal highlighted an environmental achievement that, regardless of where one stands in the debate over climate change, is significant and positive for everyone. The Journal reports that carbon dioxide emissions have fallen dramatically in the U.S. in recent years thanks in large part to the increased use of natural gas to generate electricity.

The news comes from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), an independent, statistical arm of the U.S. Department of Energy. In its analysis, EIA found that that energy-related emissions have fallen by 12 percent between 2005 and 2012 – their lowest level since 1994.

This achievement is significant. It shows that using more of our domestic natural gas reserves to power our energy demands is yielding real rewards for our environment. It is also vital to government agencies, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which monitors greenhouse gas emissions as it relates to natural gas development.

To that end EPA has reduced assumptions about the amount of greenhouse gases from natural gas operations. The agency, which effectively dropped its assessment of emissions in 2010 by about a third used data from the ANGA-API study to lower its assumptions. Natural Gas Council, of which ANGA is a member, issued a press release praising EPA for cutting its estimates, and emphasizing that we still think EPA estimates are too high.

As the data shows, using more natural gas does not force us to choose between fueling our growing energy demand with protecting our environment. We can have both. With continued safe and responsible development ensuring abundant supplies of this resource, we can build on this progress to keep our air clean for future generations.

ANGA Letter to OMB: Plan to Tax Drilling Costs Undercuts Energy, Economic Goals

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Obama administration's plan to repeal a deduction for intangible drilling costs (IDCs) is inconsistent with President Obama's plan to make greater use of our nation's clean, abundant natural gas resource, America's Natural Gas Alliance said in a letter today to acting director of the Office of Management and Budget Jeffrey Zients.

The letter, signed by ANGA's acting President and Chief Executive Officer Greg Pensabene, said there is a disconnect between the president's support for safe and responsible development of natural gas, and the imposition of billions of dollars in new taxes on this capital intensive drilling process. The upshot is that considerable economic, national security and environmental advantages could be lost, at odds with the president's recognition of the important role natural gas must play in America's energy future and in creating jobs.

"Eliminating the deductibility of IDCs would reduce new natural gas exploration and reserve growth, put a damper on jobs creation and undermine U.S. energy security," Pensabene wrote. "It would put our nation at risk of higher and more volatile energy prices, and result in less state and federal revenue and a more tepid economic recovery."

Intangible drilling costs typically amount to 60 percent to 80 percent of the cost of drilling and completing a well. It is estimated that the elimination of this deduction would reduce development activity by 4,000 wells in the first year alone-roughly a quarter of total wells drilled annually in the U.S. today. By contrast, safe and responsible natural gas development in the United States is accounts for 2.8 million American jobs, billions in investment on U.S. soil in chemicals, steel, plastics and more; and $930 billion in federal, state and local revenue and royalty payments over the next 25 years-just from shale gas.

"Natural gas offers our nation a cleaner, vast and domestic resource capable of fueling our homes, businesses and vehicles for generations to come," the letter said. "Its full potential should be encouraged, rather than discouraged by counterproductive tax increases."

A copy of the letter can be viewed here.

ANGA Commends FracFocus on its Two-Year Anniversary

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement by Dan Whitten, vice president of strategic communications at America's Natural Gas Alliance, on the two-year anniversary of FracFocus, a state-run online registry offering well-by-well information to the public about the contents of hydraulic fracturing fluids used in natural gas development.

"America's Natural Gas Alliance applauds the Ground Water Protection Council and the Interstate Oil and Gas Compact Commission for the progress they have made possible through FracFocus. In its first two years, FracFocus has established itself as the definitive resource for people seeking credible, up-to-date information about the additives used during the hydraulic fracturing process."

"Public disclosure via Fracfocus.org has been integrated into natural gas regulations in some 11 states - a true endorsement of its value as a tool for transparency and the public confidence it brings to the development process. In just two years, Fracfocus.org now contains information on more than 40,000 wells from over 500 companies and has logged more than 312,495 unique visits to the website."

"All ANGA member companies participate in this public disclosure effort. This reflects their commitment to continuing to responsibly develop natural gas and to being open and transparent with the public about how we do our work."

Potential Gas Committee Reports Record Natural Gas Reserves

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Potential Gas Committee has released its new natural gas resource estimates, and the results are impressive. The United States base resource estimate has reached 2,689 trillion cubic feet, the highest evaluation in the Committee's history and 26 percent more natural gas than was estimated just two years ago.

The continued safe and responsible development of shale gas accounts for 48 percent of the total natural gas resource. A percentage all the more amazing when you consider that just a few years ago, our nation was looking abroad to import this cleaner-burning fuel.

Dr. John B. Curtis, director of PGC, says their assessment "demonstrates an exceptionally strong and optimistic gas supply picture for the nation." Curtis goes on to say that "new and advanced exploration, well drilling, completion and stimulation technologies are allowing us increasingly better access to domestic gas resources—especially 'unconventional' gas—which, not all that long ago, were considered impractical or uneconomical to pursue."

What does this mean in practical terms? Well it means that there is more than enough natural gas to continue fueling our American economic revival through power generation, industrial use, transportation, and exports supporting millions of jobs and encouraging billions in new investments here at home. This year's record assessment should bring comfort to those concerned about our ability to provide robust supplies of natural gas at affordable prices for decades to come.

ANGA Comments on Potential Gas Committee's 26% Rise in Potential Natural Gas Resource

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a comment by America's Natural Gas Alliance's Chief Economist Erica Bowman on the Potential Gas Committee report today that provided a historically high assessment of the nation's natural gas resource.

"The Potential Gas Committee's report offers further confirmation that our nation has a vast supply of clean and affordable natural gas and we ought to be taking greater advantage of its potential in power generation, industrial applications, transportation and exports. The Potential Gas Committee clearly recognizes new and advanced technologies can produce more natural gas in American shale regions and it has become increasingly sophisticated in assessing the size of this resource.

“No other energy source has the potential to improve air quality, boost our economy and add to our nation's energy security on such a large scale. This year's assessment shows that the total potential resource is 26 percent higher than any previous finding, which should bring comfort to those concerned about our ability to provide robust supplies of natural gas at affordable prices for decades to come. This is an extraordinary opportunity for our country, and as producers we look forward to helping Americans make the most of the benefits it provides."

Natural Gas Building a Stronger U.S. Manufacturing Sector

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The word is out, and the international business community is now looking toward the United States to invest, build factories and produce goods thanks to our vast abundance of inexpensive natural gas.

A recent Washington Post article highlighted the trend, noting that the “plunging price of natural gas in the United States has European companies setting sail across the Atlantic to stay competitive.”

Beyond powering our homes and vehicles, natural gas plays a critical role in manufacturing processes, either as energy to produce a bevy of products such as steel, glass and paper or as a feedstock to produce chemicals, fertilizers and plastics.

And the capital being invested is astounding. More than $20 billion in manufacturing projects have been announced to come online by 2015. And those are just the ones that have had a capital value attached to them. There are many more on top of that. These projects cover a geographic region ranging from the Gulf Coast to the Ohio Valley.

Chemical giant BASF has invested $5.7 billion in new North American ventures; Shell is on track to build a $2 billion ethylene cracker plant in Pennsylvania, ZEEP/Todd Corp have jointly announced investing $1.3 billion in a new Louisiana-based methanol production facility, and Vallourec and United States Steel have already opened over $1 billion in steel production facilities across Ohio

These billions of dollars in investment will help produce one million new manufacturing jobs by 2025, according to a recent study by PricewaterhouseCoopers and the National Association of Manufacturers An additional study by the American Chemistry Council finds that the petrochemical manufacturers alone could support over 400,000 jobs assuming $16.2 billion in capital investment over several years. We are well on track to achieve this capital expenditure by 2015.

While no one sector will ultimately claim sole responsibility for reviving our economy, development of our domestic natural gas resources is playing a critical role in refueling our very own manufacturing renaissance. The word is out, and America is open for business thanks to natural gas.

New Poll Finds Wide Support For Natural Gas Development

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Nearly two thirds of Americans want to see our nation place more emphasis on developing America's own domestic natural gas resources, according to a recent Gallup poll. Natural gas, which is boosting economic growth and reducing emissions nationwide, was widely favored along with renewables over other conventional sources of energy.

The survey also found wide support for greater development of wind and solar energy, but noted that "these potential future sources of energy have a long way to go in terms of technology and affordability before they can significantly affect overall U.S. domestic energy production." Natural gas is an essential partner to the development of these renewable fuels, providing clean, reliable power when the sun sets or wind dies down.

The survey, based on over 1,000 telephone interviews, found wide support for natural gas across the political and socio-economic spectrum, confirming yet again that by safely developing our nation's own cleaner-burning natural gas, we don't have to choose between a healthy environment and a strong economy, we can have both.

ANGA Member Randy Foutch Featured in CNBC Series on U.S. Gas Boom

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kudos to Laredo CEO and ANGA member Randy Foutch for his impressive feature in CNBC's latest story on the U.S. natural gas boom. "Power Shift: Energy Boom Dawning in America" highlights the technological advancements that are making this American energy renaissance possible and the tangible economic benefits that result from development.

Foutch says of this country's newfound abundance of domestic energy, "We used to always worry about running out, and now we know without a doubt, without any debate, that we have enough natural gas for several generations of Americans."

Laredo’s operations are highlighted in the four part series, which will run over the next several weeks. Make sure to tune in and watch!

Marty Durbin Named President and CEO of America's Natural Gas Alliance

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. - America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) today announced Martin J. Durbin has been named president and chief executive officer, effective May 1, 2013. Mr. Durbin comes to ANGA after serving as executive vice president at the American Petroleum Institute (API), where he led advocacy efforts on behalf of the oil and gas industry.

"America's abundance of affordable, cleaner-burning natural gas provides ANGA with unprecedented opportunities," said ANGA Chairman and Apache CEO G. Steven Farris. "With his industry knowledge and experience, political acumen and deep background running successful advocacy campaigns, we are pleased to have Marty leading this important alliance. Marty is a respected and well-known voice on energy issues.

As API's executive vice president, Mr. Durbin is responsible for integrating the group's government affairs, communications, policy, and legal initiatives. Prior to serving at API, he was vice president of federal relations for the American Chemistry Council (ACC), where he directed federal legislative efforts, lobbying, coalition building, and ACC's political programs. Durbin previously was a legislative assistant for Democratic members in both the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives, where he covered environmental and energy-related issues.

"It is a privilege to lead ANGA as an advocate for the many benefits natural gas offers America during this important time in our nation's history," Durbin said. "U.S. natural gas producers are part of a domestic energy renaissance, which is expanding the role of natural gas for American families, manufacturers, electric utilities, and our transportation system, as well as many other businesses. It is an honor for me to represent the thousands of employees in the natural gas industry who are working to safely advance our quality of life, improve the environment, and bring good jobs back to communities that need them."

CRA Export Study Merits Closer Scrutiny

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Not all research can be taken as gospel, and so it's worth evaluating the assumptions made and the validity of the claims based on those assumptions when a story about a study crosses your desk. This principle applies in the case of a recent Charles River Associates (CRA) piece on exports of liquefied natural gas that contradicts the overwhelming majority of research on this issue.

The U.S. Energy Department, Brookings Institution, Rice University and Deloitte all have examined the potential impacts of shipping some of our nation's robust supplies of natural gas to other countries, and all conclude there is minimal impact on price and substantial potential benefits for our economy.

This study stands apart due to a handful of flawed assumptions that will give discerning readers pause.

The least credible assumption in this study relates to the natural gas shale supply outlook and its associated production costs. CRA assumes 708 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of shale gas supply that is technically recoverable. Yet ICF, CERA and others have all estimated technically recoverable shale reserves to be between 60 percent and 130 percent higher. Of these shale supplies, it is expected that 800 TCF can be produced at $5/mmbtu or less.

U.S. Natural Gas Technically Recoverable Resource Estimates Are Increasing

Download this chart

One of the great stories of this century so far is the vast opportunities across many sectors of our economy that shale gas provides. A U.S. manufacturing renaissance is being fueled by abundant affordable natural gas, and the Energy Information Administration forecasts that based on their outlooks for electricity, exports, industrial use and transportation, natural gas prices will remain stable for decades.

While we believe that large demand increases can be supported by available natural gas supply, the CRA study points to scenarios for export volumes that are well outside what most experts agree would be plausible under any conceivable market conditions. In essence, the study concludes that only the United States meets projected global LNG export demand, and there is no global competition to fill this gap. That would come as a surprise to Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Australia, parts of Africa and a number of other countries in the world that are already exporting natural gas not to mention others that also are exploring the potential of their own shale formations.

We have our misgivings about this study. There is no doubt about it. But really what this debate illustrates is that we need to communicate as much as we can with all stakeholders who have questions about the impact of exporting natural gas. We are committed to raising awareness of just how large this domestic resource is, so that our valued customers across all economic sectors understand that they can expect long-term reliable domestic supplies at affordable prices for generations to come.

Exports of Natural Gas Will Give America Numerous Advantages

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Earlier this week, Dow Chief Executive Officer Andrew Liveris made several assertions about natural gas exports that we plainly disagree with. Numerous studies have made clear that for America to maximize its competitive advantage in the world, we must export some of our abundant supplies of natural gas.

Contrary to Mr. Liveris' claims, the Energy Department concluded in its recent study that LNG exports can be carried out with minimal impact on domestic prices and supply and that under any scenario, exporting natural gas helps our economy. Those views have been echoed by Deloitte and the Brookings Institution recently.

Dow is an important customer of ours and we value our relationship with the company, but on this issue we think Dow is mistaken. A Wall Street Journal story just this week said that based on findings in the Barnett shale, the U.S. natural gas resurgence is expected to thrive through at least 2040. That means that we have vast supplies of this fuel that can meet our domestic needs at affordable prices for generations, and contribute to cleaner energy here and in other parts of the world.

And there are other positives. With the safe and responsible development of American natural gas comes high-paying jobs. The natural gas industry will need to hire more Americans to meet growing demand. IHS Global Insight has concluded that increased development of unconventional natural gas could create more than 2.4 million jobs by 2035.

As is the case with any product or commodity, when free trade is allowed to flourish our economy enjoys greater prosperity, our people greater economic benefits and our workers more and better jobs.

We at America's Natural Gas Alliance strongly support permitting facilities for the export of LNG. The benefits to our nation of a balanced path forward —from economics here at home, to global influence abroad—are too large to be ignored.

BPC Recognizes Important Role of America's Natural Gas Domestically and Overseas

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Washington - America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) today offered praise to the Bipartisan Policy Center for its new report, America's Energy Resurgence: Sustaining Success, Confronting Challenges, which highlights the critical role natural gas must play in America's clean energy future and the significant contributions natural gas is making to a resurgence in America’s energy economy.

"We were pleased to see the Bipartisan Policy Center so clearly articulate how natural gas is creating economic opportunity and contributing to reductions in greenhouse gas emissions," said Erica Bowman, ANGA's chief economist. "It is also significant that the report recognizes the full range of benefits that come to our nation as a result of exporting liquefied natural gas."

Natural gas has contributed to major reductions in U.S. greenhouse gas emissions since 2007. ANGA member companies' commitment to safe and responsible development and to disclosing the contents of the chemicals used in hydraulic fracturing means our nation need not sacrifice environmental protection for the clean air, energy security and economic benefits natural gas offers.

Among the report's notable findings:

The United States is now believed to have sufficient natural gas resources to meet demand for many generations at current rates of consumption.
Developing America's abundant domestic energy resources provides multiple benefits. It spurs local and regional economic activity and job creation; generates revenues for federal, state, and local government; opens the door to potential export opportunities, while simultaneously allowing the United States to reduce energy imports.
After reviewing recent studies on the impacts of LNG exports, BPC concludes that LNG exports are likely to have only modest impacts on domestic natural gas prices due to the fact that LNG exports will adjust as domestic prices rise or fall. Abundant low-cost supplies abroad and the significant costs of liquefaction and transport from the United States will further constrain U.S. export volumes, the report concludes.

The study highlights the need to fund the Interior Department at ample levels, so officials can process permits expeditiously for oil and gas development on federal lands. It also calls on Interior to produce consistent regulations. In addition, BPC points out the national security advantages of fuel diversity in transportation and notes positive steps to build fueling infrastructure and expand the use of natural gas vehicles, particularly in fleet applications and for use by railroads and the maritime sector.

ANGA to DOE: LNG Exports Offer Nation “Significant Benefits”

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) came out strongly in favor of permitting facilities planned for the export of liquefied natural gas in comments sent today to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) in response to its study on the issue.

ANGA's comments emphasize the abundance of the domestic resource base, the environmental advantages of natural gas, and the market dynamics that allow for LNG exports to be carried out with minimal impact on domestic prices. The department says it will consider the comments as part of its public interest determinations in reviewing export facility permit applications.

"There is a clear case to be made for supporting a natural gas export market. It’s an economic and environmental win," said Amy Farrell, ANGA’s vice president of regulatory affairs. "Realistic export scenarios that recognize our vast domestic production potential and market forces strongly suggest long-term price stability in domestic natural gas prices."

The natural gas industry has expanded storage capacity and improved on its ability to efficiently increase production from shale formations in response to market demand. These advances have helped to smooth out market swings and worked to ensure reliable, affordable delivery of natural gas when and where it is needed.

"As is the case with any product or commodity, when free trade is allowed to flourish our economy enjoys greater prosperity, our people greater economic benefits and our workers more and better jobs," ANGA said in its comments to the Energy Department.

"The U.S. now has new opportunities to capture significant economic, environmental and energy security benefits by both expanding domestic markets and expanding into international markets for natural gas," ANGA said in the comments.

ANGA's full reply comments can be found here on its website. The DOE Report on LNG Exports can be found here on its website.

ANGA Statement on the President's State of the Union Address

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement by Regina Hopper, President and CEO of America's Natural Gas Alliance, on this evening's State of the Union address.

"We welcome President Obama’s continued acknowledgement of tremendous opportunities that the continued safe and responsible development of American natural gas presents. From revitalizing the manufacturing sector, to growing jobs across the country, natural gas already is making a substantial contribution. Natural gas also is helping reduce energy-related greenhouse gas emissions to levels not seen since 1992 and it is an essential part of any credible forward-looking energy policy.

"Given its importance, however, it is vital that U.S. policies relating to our industry all pull in a consistent and constructive direction. We will have to take a closer look at the president’s proposals related to taxes and use of revenue from natural gas production to ensure that they don't have a negative impact on our ability to provide affordable energy and create jobs.

"As the president and other leaders continue to address America's growing energy demands, ANGA will work collaboratively with the Administration and both parties in Congress to see that our nation capitalizes on the many environmental, economic and national security benefits offered by natural gas."

CEO Announces Departure From America's Natural Gas Alliance To Return to Litigation Communications Practice

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C.—America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) President and CEO Regina Hopper announced today that she submitted her resignation from the organization effective February 28, 2013. After three and a half years at the helm, Hopper has firmly established ANGA as a highly respected advocacy organization focused on supply and demand initiatives. She presided during a period when technological advances unlocked vast domestic supplies of this versatile and cleaner burning energy source.

Hopper came to ANGA after holding senior positions at USTelecom and the American Trucking Associations. She helped build ANGA into a unique advocacy-marketing hybrid with operations in 18 states, Washington D.C. and Canada. Last year, Hopper was named a top trade association chief executive by CEO Update and was featured in The Hill's annual list of 'top lobbyists.'

"Since beginning her role as CEO in 2009, Regina has been instrumental in the emergence of America’s Natural Gas Alliance as a leading voice in sharing the unprecedented opportunities available today in North America as a result of its abundant, clean and affordable natural gas," said ANGA Chairman and Apache CEO, G. Steven Farris. "Regina's leadership was essential in building business relationships with state electric utilities and enhancing understanding among policy makers regarding the importance of utilizing a plentiful and beneficial domestic energy resource. She has led ANGA's growth from its infancy into its becoming an important voice in the discussion around fuel diversity and economic growth for our nation. We are grateful for her service, for the strong organization she leaves behind, and we wish her much success in her future endeavors."

“I was hired to build an effective and powerful advocacy organization with strong fiscal management,” Hopper said. "By all accounts we have achieved these important objectives. I am proud of the team we assembled, the work done and the accomplishments achieved for this important American industry."

Hopper is departing the organization to return to her roots in litigation communications. With a strong and qualified staff already in place, Farris said ANGA will immediately begin conducting the search for a successor.

ANGA Statement in Support of LNG Exports

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

America’s Natural Gas Alliance strongly supports the country’s ability to export natural gas. As is the case with any product or commodity, when free trade is allowed to flourish our economy enjoys greater prosperity, our people greater economic benefits, and our workers more and better jobs. Imposing arbitrary limits on free trade, including exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG), would be an economically short-sighted mistake.

Reliable energy will be needed to meet the needs of a growing domestic and global economy. We need cleaner energy and we need abundant and domestic energy to grow our economy and create jobs here at home. North America's abundant supplies of natural gas will be a big part of the supply picture. Our natural gas resource is vast. The shale gas resource has revolutionized the scale and future energy supply in this country.

Because of its abundant supply and world-class capability and infrastructure, the U.S. now has new opportunities to capture significant benefits by both expanding domestic markets and expanding into international markets for natural gas. The recently released Department of Energy (DOE) report on natural gas exports concludes that exporting natural gas, via LNG technology, will generate net economic benefit to the U.S. economy. Economies of scale realized through increased natural gas production and related job creation, revenue, and improved balance of payments from export trade will all accrue from free, open, and transparent markets.

A small number of companies, however, are seeking to limit the export of LNG. America’s Energy Advantage, a coalition backed by a few large domestic natural gas users, defends its position based on estimates for natural gas demand that are more than 50% higher than DOE estimates and a flawed analysis of the impact of U.S. natural gas exports on domestic prices. Their position, in opposition to LNG exports, is fundamentally contrary to basic economic principles, as well as longstanding U.S. efforts to expand international trade. Such limits would deny the U.S. opportunities to substantially improve economic growth while creating new jobs and government revenues through new energy resource development.

As the DOE considers and evaluates comments on the recent LNG export study, ANGA encourages the department to consider the full range of benefits that will accrue to the U.S. Those benefits include the enhanced energy security and economic prosperity that will be achieved by supporting the open and free trade of LNG.

ANGA-API Study Shows Methane Emissions 53 Percent Below EPA Estimates

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON - An updated survey by URS prepared for America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) and the American Petroleum Institute (API) has found further reductions in greenhouse gas emissions from natural gas production.

The survey is an updated version of data first released in June. It shows that venting of methane into the atmosphere during liquids unloading is 93 percent lower than Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates and that methane emissions from well re-fracturing are 72 percent lower. Taken as a whole, methane emissions from natural gas production are at least 53 percent below EPA's estimates. This is the most comprehensive look to date at the issue, analyzing data from nearly 20 percent of all U.S. natural gas-producing wells-a sample size more than 10 times larger than EPA's.

"This report reinforces the importance of sound science and accurate data in our public dialogue about our energy choices as a nation," said Tom Amontree, Executive Vice President of America's Natural Gas Alliance. "Natural gas is an increasingly important component of America's clean energy future, economy and national security. The industry's commitment to safe and responsible development means people don't need to trade protection of air, land and water for economic advancement."

The survey is based on emissions from 91,000 wells operated by 20 companies distributed over a broad area of the United States. By contrast, EPA's data was derived from only 8,800 wells confined to specific areas not representative of the entire country. Recently the U.S. Energy Information Administration concluded that use of more natural gas in power generation has helped lead to the lowest level of greenhouse gas emissions since 1992.

The full study can be found here. Download the fact sheet here.

ANGA Applauds Presidential Candidates' Support for Natural Gas

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement from Regina Hopper, President and CEO of America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA), in response to this evening's Second Presidential debate between President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney.

"We are pleased to see that President Obama and Governor Romney agree that increasing America's use of clean, abundant natural gas will be an important component of any forward looking energy policy. Safe and responsible development of this domestic resource is occurring every day across our nation and by using more natural gas, we do not have to choose between meeting our nation's energy demands and protecting our environment.

"The Energy Information Administration recently reported that increased natural gas use has contributed to carbon emissions that have hit their lowest level since 1992. Natural gas also creates lower emissions of conventional pollutants than the primary alternatives in the transportation and electricity sectors. Meanwhile, a study from IHS Global Insight concluded that shale gas development will support 1.6 million jobs by 2035 and save the average American household $926 annually.

"With so many benefits for our economy and our environment, natural gas can provide a boost to our entire nation, regardless of political affiliation."

ANGA Applauds Candidates' Support for Natural Gas During Debate

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement from Regina Hopper, President and CEO of America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA), in response to this evening's Presidential debate between President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney.

"This evening, both President Obama and Governor Romney highlighted natural gas as an important component of U.S. energy policy. The safe and responsible development of America's vast natural gas resource drives economic growth, provides generations of workers with good-paying jobs, produces affordable, clean electricity and contributes to revenue used by communities and states across the country. For these reasons, along with its environmental and energy security advantages, President Obama and Governor Romney both routinely tout the benefits of natural gas. It is encouraging to see that increased production and use of this clean, affordable American resource is one area on which both candidates agree."

ANGA Statement on Gov. Christie’s Veto of Wastewater Treatment Legislation

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement from Tom Amontree, Executive Vice President of America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA), in response to Gov. Chris Christie's veto of legislation that would have banned the treatment, storage and disposal of wastewater from hydraulic fracturing activities in New Jersey.

"Governor Christie made the right choice today in vetoing legislation that was not based on sound scientific data. Natural gas is developed safely and responsibly across the nation and we are committed to policies based in fact and sound science. This includes the responsible disposal of water from hydraulic fracturing activities. Production of our nation's clean, abundant natural gas resources holds numerous benefits for the environment, our economy, our energy security for the citizens of New Jersey and for the country."

ANGA Comments on Latest Jobs Data

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a comment by America's Natural Gas Alliance's Executive Vice President Tom Amontree on the latest jobs data.

"One silver lining in today's jobs data is the fact that American natural gas, along with oil, created more than 1,100 U.S. jobs from July to August. Over the past year, the sector's employment contribution adds up to more than 19,000 new jobs, which is an 11 percent gain.

"This news comes on the heels of the president's acknowledgment last night of the economic and employment potential of robust and responsible domestic natural gas development. We have seen in recent weeks leaders of both parties embrace the potential for natural gas to help power a U.S. economic revival.

"IHS recently estimated that there could be more than one million new jobs created in shale formations alone by 2035 thanks to economic growth powered by responsible domestic natural gas development. We as a nation must take full advantage of the opportunity American natural gas presents to advance U.S. economic, environmental and energy security interests."

ANGA Comments on Release of Democratic National Committee Platform

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement by Regina Hopper, President and Chief Executive Officer for America's Natural Gas Alliance, on today's release of the Democratic National Committee Platform.

"Natural gas must be an important element of any forward looking energy policy. Safe and responsible development of this abundant, domestic resource is occurring every day across our nation under the expert oversight of state-based regulators who know best how to protect our water supplies and air quality without harming our environment. The cost savings and environmental benefits of natural gas are truly bipartisan. With natural gas, we do not have to choose between meeting our energy demands and protecting our environment. We can have both. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to continue safely and responsibly harnessing our natural gas supplies for generations to come."

ANGA Provides Transportation Fueled by American Natural Gas for Democratic National Convention

Mon, 03 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

CHARLOTTE, NC - America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) and Piedmont Natural Gas today hosted an exhibit at the 2012 Democratic Convention as a part of a broader initiative to transport conventioneers around the city using compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles.

The exhibit highlights the potential for all natural gas vehicles to offer a game-changing evolution of our transportation system that can help reduce fuel costs, promote clean air and improve U.S. energy security. The vehicles were on display at Legacy Village at CarolinaFest, and the shuttles will now report for their convention duties.

The 12 shuttle buses are called the DNC Uptown Circulators. They will transport convention participants to several hotels, as well as attractions in the Charlotte area. ANGA is working with local utility Piedmont Natural Gas and Ultimate CNG to provide compressed natural gas fuel for the buses. The buses also were used in Tampa during the Republican convention.

"This is a great opportunity to give leaders from across our nation a first-hand experience with a natural gas vehicle," said ANGA President and Chief Executive Office Regina Hopper. "From airport shuttles to city buses, AT&T service vans to UPS delivery trucks, companies and communities are turning to natural gas for cleaner and more affordable transportation. Best of all, our economic and environmental interests are aligned. This is a low-cost, American fuel that promotes clean air and we all should be able to get on board driving this positive change."

CNG fuel provides significant cost savings over diesel-fueled buses. When compared to diesel, compressed natural gas costs about $1.69 less per gallon equivalent. CNG also offers fleets an American fuel choice that is cleaner for the environment. The Obama administration has recognized the benefits of using natural gas in vehicles, putting it on an equal footing with other alternative-fuel options as a preferred technology under the recently completed Corporate Average Fuel Economy rules.

"We are thrilled to have these clean energy buses in Charlotte to transport our delegates and other convention guests around the city," said Steve Kerrigan, chief executive officer of the Democratic National Convention Committee. "The Democratic National Convention Committee and Charlotte in 2012 Host Committee are committed to innovative sustainability solutions, like these low-emission buses, that minimize the environmental impact of the convention and advance clean energy growth."

Charlotte is already taking advantage of natural gas as an affordable, American transportation fuel. The Charlotte solid waste department announced in March that it will add four trucks fueled by CNG to its fleet and the City Council has approved funds for natural gas vehicles.

"Piedmont Natural Gas is pleased to partner with ANGA to provide clean and affordable natural gas for the shuttle buses serving the Democratic National Convention," said Jane Lewis-Raymond, senior vice president of Piedmont Natural Gas. "As part of our broader commitment to sustainability, Piedmont is diligently working to promote the use of natural gas vehicles throughout our service territory. We are collaborating with both private- and public sector fleet operators and expanding the number of refueling stations available to natural gas vehicles."

Thanks to recent discoveries of vast supplies of shale gas throughout our nation, the United States is now the world's leading producer of this versatile energy resource that can be used for transportation, power generation and industrial purposes.

Natural gas production is responsible for nearly 3 million jobs nationwide. According to a recent IHS study, natural gas supported more than 11,000 jobs in North Carolina in 2010. That number is expected to rise to more than 28,000 by 2035. In addition, IHS found that natural gas will contribute more than $4.1 billion in government revenue to North Carolina by 2035

***FOR PHOTOGRAPHS OR B-ROLL OF THE BUSES, PLEASE CONTACT US AT 202-789-2642.***

ANGA Comments on Administration Release of CAFE Standards

Tue, 28 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement by Tom Amontree, executive vice president for America's Natural Gas Alliance, on the Obama administration's release of Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards for cars and light-duty trucks.

"The administration has recognized that natural gas vehicles (NGVs) provide pollution reduction in an efficient and cost-effective way. The final rule also begins to level the playing field between natural gas vehicles and other alternatively fueled vehicles. In addition to having far lower operating costs and reduced maintenance costs, NGVs increase U.S. energy security by relying on clean-burning natural gas that is produced safely and responsibly right here in North America."

ANGA Provides Transportation Fueled by American Natural Gas for Republican National Convention

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Tampa, FL - America's Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA) today announced that it is providing buses fueled by clean, affordable, American compressed natural gas (CNG) for the 2012 Republican National Convention.

The 12 shuttle buses, dubbed the GOP EZ Shuttles, will transport convention participants on specific routes to several hotels, as well as attractions in the Tampa Bay area, including Ybor City and Busch Gardens. ANGA is working with local utility TECO Peoples Gas and Ultimate CNG to provide CNG fuel for the buses.

CNG fuel provides significant cost savings over diesel-fueled buses. When compared to diesel, compressed natural gas costs about $1.69 less per gallon equivalent. CNG also offers fleets an American fuel choice that is cleaner for the environment.

"We are proud to have this opportunity to provide transportation to convention participants in Tampa and to give them a first-hand experience with natural gas vehicles," said ANGA President and Chief Executive Office Regina Hopper. "Companies and local leaders across the country are embracing natural gas as a fuel choice and calling for more vehicle options and filling stations to help drive this change. Our message in Tampa and beyond is that this is an extraordinary opportunity for our nation, and it's time to get on board with this American fuel choice."

Tampa and St. Petersburg are already taking advantage of natural gas as a clean, affordable, American transportation fuel, using it for airport transit vehicles and as part of the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit system starting next year. The decision to employ natural gas vehicles will add up to substantial cost savings and environmental benefits over the life of the vehicles.

"As mayor, I have seen firsthand the benefits that natural gas vehicles can bring in terms of lower fuel costs and clean air. I am pleased to welcome natural gas buses to the convention. These buses will not only provide a cleaner, cheaper method of transport but will also connect the thousands of guests here for various convention events to our local attractions," said City of Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn.

"We're delighted that these 12 natural gas vehicles - what we call 'the Clean Dozen' - will be part of our convention," said William Harris, CEO of the 2012 Republican National Convention Committee on Arrangements. "Energy independence is critical to Mitt Romney's vision of a better future for all Americans, which is what this convention is all about."

Thanks to recent discoveries of vast supplies of shale gas throughout our nation, the United States is now the world's leading producer of this versatile energy resource that can be used for transportation, power generation and industrial purposes. Greater use of natural gas vehicles can save money, create American jobs and enhance U.S. energy security. Leading companies such as Ryder, Verizon and AT&T have invested in natural gas vehicles for their fleets.

Natural gas production is responsible for nearly 3 million jobs and adds $385 billion annually to our economy. Abundant domestic supplies also translate into affordable energy, increasing the disposable income for the average American household by an estimated $926 this year.

Florida is the second largest user of natural gas in the country, with 62 percent of the state's electricity generation coming from natural gas. According to a recent IHS study, natural gas supported more than 15,000 jobs in Florida in 2010. That number is expected to rise to more than 30,000 by 2035. In addition, IHS found that natural gas will contribute more than $23 billion in government revenue to Florida by 2035

ANGA also will be providing buses for the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, NC.

ANGA Welcomes Study Highlighting Potential for Natural Gas Vehicles

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Background: Following is a statement from Tom Hassenboehler, Vice President of Policy Development and Legislative Affairs for America's Natural Gas Alliance, on a report by the National Petroleum Council on the potential for greater use of alternative fuels for transportation.

"We are pleased that the NPC has recognized the important role clean, abundant natural gas can play in fueling our transportation future. As a vehicle fuel, natural gas is a low cost way to achieve emissions reductions in transportation.

The NPC report highlights just some of the benefits of using natural gas vehicles. Specifically, the report found that there are fewer barriers to expanding the market for light and heavy duty natural gas vehicles than there are for some other technologies. It also said that natural gas transportation technologies under development can result in improved fuel economy and lower operating costs.

We look forward to working with the full range of stakeholders as we move toward increasing our nation's use of cleaner, domestic, affordable natural gas in our transportation sector."

A link to the NPC report can be found here.