Natural Gas Import &
Export Regulation

Natural gas imports are becoming an increasingly important source of gas supply in the United States, accounting for about 16 percent of U.S. natural gas consumption in 2001. Although most U.S. gas imports are delivered by pipeline, a small but growing percentages is received as liquified natural gas (LNG). Quantities of LNG imports into the United States has risen dramatically in recent years -- more than doubling from 85 billion cubic feet in 1998 to 235 billion cubic feet in 2001. The United States also exports natural gas, primarily to serve industries growing along the Mexico side of the U.S.-Mexico border.

DOE's Natural Gas Regulatory Responsibilities

The Office of Oil and Gas Global Security and Supply, Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities regulates natural gas imports and exports under Section 3 of the Natural Gas Act of 1938; maintaining statistics on North American natural gas trade, and overseeing the Office of Fossil Energy's international programs pertaining to natural gas and petroleum.

The Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities identifies developing export and international business opportunities for U.S. private industry, and develops programs and implements policies that will enhance the U.S. energy industry's ability to compete in foreign markets. It promotes technologies and solutions that will improve the global environment and increase U.S. energy security.

File Your Application Electronically

Prospective importers and exporters of natural gas can now request federal authorizations using a new, online e-file system. Currently, the electronic process is available for short-term authorizations to trade with Mexico and Canada or for importing liquefied natural gas.
   E-file your application

Secretary Proposes to Gather Data on Monthly Basis

In keeping with the Secretary of Energy's desire to improve the way the Department of Energy gathers and disseminates information about the use and origin of natural gas supplies for the United States, the Office of Fossil Energy is proposing to gather limited information on natural gas imports and exports on a monthly basis.
            Read Federal Register notice [opens new window]

Monthly data is now available for LNG imports. All data represents estimates and is subject to future revisions on this site and in the quarterly publication "Natural Gas Imports and Exports."
            View new monthly LNG Imports report [opens new window] 

Filing Procedures

Due to ongoing delays in the delivery of mail, the Office of Natural Gas Regulatory Activities has instigated the following alternative application process. An applicant may fax an application for the import or export of natural gas to either (202) 586-6050 or (202) 586-4062. The faxed application must be accompanied by a photocopy of the check for the application fee. It must also include a cover letter or affidavit indicating that the applicant has mailed the application on the same day. Applications may still be delivered by messenger to the Forrestal Building. Please, notify this office before sending a messenger.

• Call Larine Moore at (202) 586-9478 if you have questions.