10.28.11

Murkowski: No Time to Lose to Advance Alaska Natural Gas

Senator Announces LNG Export Hearing, Calls for Accelerated Construction

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, today urged Alaskans to consider all options for commercializing the state’s huge natural gas resources on the North Slope, including expediting construction of a pipeline as far as Fairbanks. 

"The world is seeing massive changes in terms of natural gas supply and markets, and Alaskans must be able to adjust to those changes. Back in February, I asked the Legislature to be ready to consider new options on a gas line, so I welcome the governor's announcement and look forward to examining LNG export as a possibility.

"In the meantime, I think it's worthwhile for the state to consider the benefits of providing a level of support for accelerating construction of a large-diameter line as far as Fairbanks – which will be necessary no matter where the bulk of the gas ultimately is monetized.

"On Nov. 8, I will host a hearing of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee in Washington, DC, on developing markets for natural gas, including LNG export. Commercializing Alaska’s gas will be a central part of that discussion.”  

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