The need for energy is increasing globally, particularly in emerging Asian economies. Natural gas - the world's cleanest burning fossil fuel - is able to accommodate the demand.

In the next 20 years, the world-wide demand for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is projected to increase two-and-a-half times and British Columbia is well-positioned to meet this need. British Columbia has competitive advantages that make us a leading contender for LNG growth and export including an abundant supply of natural gas, the fastest shipping route between Asia and North America, accessible deep water ports, a stable government and a world-class regulatory regime.

Why It Matters:

With the recent discovery of large natural gas reserves in the United States, our largest trading partner, British Columbia must diversify and reach out to prospective customers in Asia. Creating strong business relationships with the markets looking for natural gas supply will ensure British Columbia becomes their preferred source for energy.

Minister of Natural Gas Development Rich Coleman is in Korea, China and Malaysia this week to promote the development of British Columbia's LNG industry.

Quote:

Rich Coleman, Minister of Natural Gas Development -

"It is important for the Province of B.C. to speak directly with the governments and companies eager to know more about our natural gas potential. We are building confidence in our position as a LNG producer and strengthening ties with key stakeholders to build our LNG industry."

Quick Facts:

• South Korea is the second-largest consumer of LNG worldwide, consuming 32.9 million tonnes per annum of LNG in 2010. The country's LNG demand is expected to increase to 45.2 million tonnes per annum by 2030.
• In China, LNG demand could increase seven-fold from 9.4 million tonnes per annum in 2010 to 65.9 million tonnes per annum in 2030.
• Malaysia is one of the top-five LNG producers in the world and is the home of PETRONAS Energy Inc., which will invest $36 billion in the Pacific Northwest LNG facility proposed in Prince Rupert, B.C.
• British Columbia's natural gas resource base is estimated at over 1,400 trillion cubic feet (tcf). B.C. has enough natural gas supply to support production and LNG exports for over 80 years.
• As of October 2013, there are over 10 LNG export proposals in B.C. If five large LNG plants are built, the cumulative gross domestic product benefit to British Columbia is expected to add up to $1 trillion by 2046.
• LNG export operations in B.C. could create over 100,000 new jobs in British Columbia and new revenues for government to support a debt-free future.

Learn More at:

LNG 101: A Guide to British Columbia's Liquefied Natural Gas Sector: http://www.gov.bc.ca/mngd/doc/LNG101.pdf

For an update on B.C.'s LNG strategy, visit: http://www.gov.bc.ca/com/attachments/LNGreport_update2013_web130207.pdf

British Columbia's Liquefied Natural Gas Strategy: http://www.empr.gov.bc.ca/SiteCollectionDocuments/LNGreport_web_130627.pdf

Media Contact:

Sandra Steilo
Media Relations
Ministry of Natural Gas Development
250 952-0617