WASHINGTON, March 24, 2014 ─ API President and CEO Jack Gerard welcomed today’s authorization by the Department of Energy for liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports from the Jordan Cove terminal in Coos Bay, Oregon and urged the agency to quickly process over 20 remaining applications.

“The economic and strategic benefits of natural gas exports have sparked a bipartisan chorus for action,” said Gerard. “Today’s approval is a welcome step toward greater energy security, and our industry stands ready to help the administration strengthen America’s position in the global energy market and provide greater security to our allies around the world. We urge the administration to continue making U.S. exports a priority.”

Gerard also cited a recent study of U.S. job gains and economic growth associated with future exports of LNG. According to the report, by ICF International, the economic benefits of LNG exports will extend far beyond natural gas-producing states, driving national job growth and increasing demand for U.S. steel, cement, equipment, and other goods.

API is the only national trade association representing all facets of the oil and natural gas industry, which supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy. API’s more than 580 members include large integrated companies, as well as exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms. They provide most of the nation’s energy and are backed by a growing grassroots movement of more than 20 million Americans.