Shortage of skilled labor could delay upcoming LNG, petrochemicals projects

摘要

While the Department of Energy's pace of approving LNG exports has picked up, industry experts see a looming development that could delay those and other types of projects expected to boost demand for natural gas; a shortage of skilled labor. The need for tens of thousands of workers such as welders, pipefitters and electricians is daunting, analysts say, and if that labor demand cannot be met, some gas projects could go by the wayside or be put off indefinitely - putting further pressure on North American gas prices as shale production continues unabated.