On the recordMarch 3, 2004
The provisions in the Energy bill fulfill the Federal Government's role in bringing this pipeline to fruition. During winter break in the Lower 48, I heard over and over again concerns about the price of natural gas. It is currently about $7 per thousand cubic feet, when only a few months ago it was $4. Some fear there is market manipulation since stocks of gas in reserve are adequate and the winter has not been colder than normal so far. Investigations have already started. However, there is a reason behind the price rise. While this year there may be adequate supplies of natural gas, next year may be a different story. As I explain in my book, Lower 48 and Southern Canadian natural gas production will decline and the United States will face a supply gap with prices climbing above $10. However, supply is declining faster than I anticipated. The market may merely be anticipating next year's supply gap-- increasing prices now to conserve reserves and to increase production later.
Source
govinfo.gov




