“The all-of-the-above energy strategy I announced a few years ago is working, and today, America is closer to energy independence than we’ve been in decades. One of the reasons why is natural gas – if extracted safely, it’s the bridge fuel that can power our economy with less of the carbon pollution that causes climate change. Businesses plan to invest almost $100 billion in new factories that use natural gas. I’ll cut red tape to help states get those factories built, and this Congress can help by putting people to work building fueling stations that shift more cars and trucks from foreign oil to American natural gas,” Obama said during his fifth State of the Union speech.
Moreover, the White House announced that they are taking steps to make natural gas production safer, thus it is developing new environmental standards for oil and gas drilling on public lands and will continue to invest in research to ensure safe and responsible production. The President also called on Congress to work with the Administration and State and local governments to generate Sustainable Shale Gas Growth Zones, helping regions come together to make sure shale gas is developed in a safe, responsible way.
Regarding this State of the Union Address, Marty Durbin, CEO of America’s Natural Gas Alliance (ANGA), welcomed President Obama’s support for natural gas. “As he mentioned, there is great promise for natural gas in our transportation sector as trucks, trains and cargo ships transition to this fuel. We stand ready to work with the Administration, Congress and policymakers around the country to see that our nation capitalizes on the many environmental, economic and national security benefits offered by natural gas.”
Source: White House / ANGA
