I am strongly opposed to proposals to export liquefied natural gas via the Columbia River, and other energy export proposals by private interests, on multiple grounds.
We, as a nation, need to use the glut of cheap natural gas from fracking. Frack gas should be used for domestic requirements, for transportation, for industry, and for cheaper home heating and cooking. If frack gas can be piped to the Oregon Coast and processed into LNG for shipment to Tokyo, we can get it to L.A., Chicago, Seattle and Portland and for a lot less cost.
Continued import of OPEC oil for domestic users at cost multiples four times over current long-term bulk rates (per million therms) for frack gas is an outrage. (Google: “World Gas Prices Diverge”). Three years ago the public was advised that expedited approvals were necessary for LNG import and the frequent promise of jobs, jobs, jobs. Suddenly we now need LNG exports and coal exports and crude oil rail car transport through the world famous Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area?
The people and economies of three states are involved. Where are the risks-costs benefits studies and due diligence investigations?
