Energy Department Ends LNG Export Pause Following Trump Order

The decision will balance America’s trade deficits and ensure energy security for allies, an expert said.

A model LNG tanker in front of a U.S. flag, in this illustration, taken on May 19, 2022. Dado Ruvic/Reuters

The Department of Energy (DOE) revoked on Jan. 21 a Biden-era regulation that restricted liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, paving the way for capacity additions in the sector and strengthening the U.S. energy industry.

In January 2024, the federal government temporarily paused the approval of LNG exports to nations without a free trade agreement with the United States. At the time, the administration cited issues such as the effects of LNG exports on greenhouse gas emissions and rising energy costs for Americans as reasons for the pause.