US Backs Lithuanian Energy Independence
The United States has pledged support for Lithuania's bid for energy independence,
"We strongly support Lithuania's energy independence strategy, which includes regional development of nuclear power, liquefied natural gas, unconventional oil and gas, as well as gas and electricity links between the Baltic States and the rest of the European Union," said US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who is visiting the Baltic nation.
The United States has pledge to help Lithuania in developing its shale gas reserves, which the Baltic nation hopes may become an alternative to supplies from OAO Gazprom. At present Lithuania relies entirely on Russia for its gas imports
Reserves of shale gas, located in the southwest of the country, may cover the nation’s domestic consumption needs for between 30 to 60 years, based on estimates by the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
As part of seeking a more diversified source of supply and to boost energy security, Lithuania has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Cheniere Energy, Inc to address its future natural gas needs and assess LNG purchase and supply options.
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