On Monday, the Pennsylvania Senate’s Environmental and Energy Resources Committee heard testimony about legislation that would look into making the Port of Philadelphia a liquefied natural gas (LNG) export terminal.
The legislation, authored by state Rep. Martina White (R-Philadelphia), would create a task force to study the issue. The task force would not only look into what obstacles are currently preventing Philadelphia from becoming a leader in exporting LNG but also with preparing a report on the issue for the General Assembly and the administration with recommendations. The task force would be made up of those in the natural gas industry, Philadelphia building trade, and the PhilaPort, as well as people representing the General Assembly.
“I think we can all agree the war taking place between Ukraine and Russia has made everyone more aware of the need for an accessible and reliable energy source that does not put the United States at the mercy of other countries,” White said. “Pennsylvania could and should be a leader in the production and export of clean energy sources, like liquified national gas. We have an abundance under the ground that can provide the United States with energy freedom, and we have a port right here in Philadelphia that can be used to export it.”
Witnesses said the legislation would create jobs.
“The potential LNG project in Chester, Delaware County, will greatly benefit hard-working families who work in the building trades like our members of Steamfitters Local 420,” said Jim Snell with Steamfitters Local 420. “Energy jobs drive the economy as well support local businesses. Our members count on growth in the energy sector for employment, and our nation counts on us to help provide the energy to meet the needs of tomorrow.”
Other witnesses included representatives of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, the Chamber of Commerce for Greater Philadelphia, Berkshire Hathaway Energy GT&S, Penn LNG, EQT, the American Chamber of Commerce in Bulgaria, and others.
“As long as we are going to wear clothes, as long as we are going to eat food, as long as we are going to drive cars – even electric ones – the demand for natural gas will not disappear, here or in Europe,” said state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), chairman of the Senate Environmental and Energy Resources Committee. “And how blessed are we here in Pennsylvania to be one of the top producers of natural gas in the world? We should be doing more with it.”
As of Oct. 31, the bill, H.B. 2458, was awaiting the governor’s signature. He has 10 days to veto or sign it, or he could do nothing and let the bill become law without his signature.