Energy Department Reports Rare Decline in 2006 in Net Imports of Natural Gas; Average Price of Imports Dropped 15 Percent

摘要

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported net U.S. imports of 3,462 Bcf of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) during 2006, down 150 Bcf or 4.2% from the 2005 level. This was the first decline in three years and only the third in the past 20 years. Net imports accounted for about 16% of U.S. total gas demand. While the ratio has remained "relatively stable" over the past eight years, the mix of foreign supply sources has changed substantially. Pipeline imports from Canada were lower in 2006, yet Canada remained the largest exporter to the U.S. "and is expected to stay the largest for some time." Imports of LNG were lower, in part, because available cargos found higher-priced regional markets in Europe and Asia.