ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The state of Alaska is asking ConocoPhillips to reopen its liquefied natural gas plant on the Kenai Peninsula.
Acting Natural Resources Commissioner Joe Balash in a letter to ConocoPhillips President Trond-Erik Johansen asks that the company apply for a three-year license to export LNG from the plant.
ConocoPhillips announced in March that it would not seek an extension of its export license but might do so if local gas market needs were met and there was enough gas to export.
Balash says current contracts can support local utility demands through 2018, but petroleum companies lack incentives to explore or invest without more market opportunities for gas.
ConocoPhillips spokeswoman Natalie Lowman says the company appreciates the state’s opinion and is evaluating the request.