AK HR17

Urges the U.S. Department of Energy to expeditiously approve a two-year extension of the export license for the Kenai liquefied natural gas plant, which is set to expire in March 2011.

The Kenai LNG plant has operated safely for over 40 years and generates approximately $130,000,000 in annual economic benefits to the state and Kenai Peninsula Borough combined.

Approximately 60 direct jobs and 50 indirect jobs supported by the facility generate approximately $17,000,000 annually in personal income, with gas production and sales generating approximately $60,000,000 in royalties and taxes.

The plant serves as a virtual storage facility ensuring stable gas supply for Southcentral Alaska during peak demand periods and supply disruptions, with no practical alternative backup source currently available.

Directs copies of the resolution be sent to U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich, and U.S. Representative Don Young.