The U.S. Solidifies Its Role as a Major Energy Exporter

The U.S. is currently one of the largest producers of natural gas in the world. In the last 10 years, the U.S. natural gas market has increased nearly 50 percent, from producing about 24 to 35 trillion cubic feet of natural gas annually.

We’ve been an annual net total energy exporter since 2019, and just 2 years ago, total energy exports exceeded total energy imports by about 3.82 quadrillion Btu — the largest margin on record. A major driver of our export growth is liquefied natural gas (LNG). Since producers began exporting LNG in 2016, it’s served as a massive driver of the U.S.’ role in the global energy market. And, as of mid-2022, the U.S. has more LNG export capacity than any other country — and has exported more LNG than any other country as well.¹

As Europe’s demand for gas rises in light of the conflict in Ukraine, American producers will continue to export as much LNG as they can, which will impact volatility and prices for consumers in the U.S.²

This year, as the Freeport LNG facility fully returns to service, the EIA forecasts the U.S. will remain the world’s largest LNG exporter. In 2024, U.S. LNG exports will increase further as LNG export projects under construction begin operations.³

50% IN 10 YEARS