Outlook dims for decontrol of natural gas
Natural gas decontrol is a matter of concern for the chemical industry, which is more interested in adequate and secure supplies than price. Although natural gas decontrol requires Congressional action because of the Natural Gas Policy Act (NGPA) of 1978, the prospects remained good until this year's inaction and opposition from consumers and the American Gas Association dimmed industrial hopes. The economy and upcoming elections make decontrol less likely. Excise taxes on natural gas have lowered output and consumption in the meantime. The industry will continue to lobby for relief from the NGPA, whose phased decontrol structure has intensified market disruptions. Petrochemical companies are as concerned about supplies of natural gas liquids for processes as they are about feedstocks. Low-priced competition from the Middle East and other sources will keep supplies available with or without decontrol. 3 figures, 5 tables. (DCK)
- Research Organization:
- Chemical and Engineering News, New York, NY
- OSTI ID:
- 5559958
- Journal Information:
- Chem. Eng. News; (United States), Journal Name: Chem. Eng. News; (United States) Vol. 60:8; ISSN CENEA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Outlook for natural-gas prices as decontrol approaches
Effects of decontrol policy options
Related Subjects
031000 -- Natural Gas-- Legislation & Regulations
29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
294003* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Natural Gas
CHEMICAL INDUSTRY
DEREGULATION
ENERGY SOURCES
FLUIDS
FOSSIL FUELS
FUEL GAS
FUELS
GAS FUELS
GASES
INDUSTRY
INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
LAWS
NATIONAL ENERGY ACT
NATURAL GAS
NATURAL GAS POLICY ACT
POLITICAL ASPECTS