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January 14, 2026

January 2026 – Energy News

The U.S. natural gas market begins the year with increased domestic demand, record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and legislation aimed at improving U.S. natural gas production.

Domestic Demand

The most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that the demand for natural gas in the U.S. has reached 138.72 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), which is an 8 percent increase compared to last year. This total includes 47 Bcf/d for residential and commercial use, representing a 20 percent rise from the previous year. Industrial demand has decreased to 23.6 Bcf/d, a 7 percent drop from last year, while the demand for natural gas in electric power generation is at 34.7 Bcf/d, down 1.4 percent from last year.

Weather is a major factor in domestic demand across the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently issued its 6-10 Day Temperature Outlook, predicting below-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern regions of the country. This significant drop in temperatures could lead to increased heating needs, further boosting demand for natural gas.

International Demand  

In 2025, the U.S. achieved a record global export of 111 million metric tons (mmt) of LNG. This volume surpassed Qatar's exports by nearly 20 mmt and exceeded the previous year's shipments by 23 mmt. The U.S. accounted for about a quarter of global LNG exports. In December, exports peaked at an unprecedented 11.5 mmt, setting a new monthly record. Throughout 2025, the U.S. established itself as a leader in the LNG market by setting five monthly production records.

In December, Europe remained the largest destination for U.S. LNG, importing nine mmt due to colder winter conditions that boosted demand and a continued shift away from Russian gas supplies. Additionally, Turkey increased its LNG purchases to 1.45 mmt during that month.

Production & Supply

Last year ended with natural gas storage at 3,375 billion cubic feet (Bcf). This is 1.6 percent lower than the amount recorded at the same time last year, but it is 1.0 percent above the five-year average. Although we are above the five-year average, it's important to note that the U.S. began 2025 with storage levels that were 6.5 percent higher than the five-year average for 2026.

At the end of the year, the U.S. natural gas rig count stood at 125, marking a 21.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects a rise from the beginning of the year, when the rig count was 103, which was 12.7 percent lower than the count at the start of 2024. The total U.S. natural gas supply has also grown, currently at 115.9 Bcf/d, up from 110.8 Bcf/d at the same time last year.

As we look toward longer-term production in the U.S., Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced the bipartisan SPEED Act in July 2025. This legislation aims to streamline federal permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by setting stricter timelines and reducing delays for energy infrastructure projects like pipelines and LNG export facilities. The House has passed the bill, but it still requires Senate consideration to be codified into law.

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to talk to someone about your natural gas, please call your sales representative.

Market Data:

January 14, 2026

Weekly Natural Gas Storage (Values listed in Bcf)
Year to Year 5-year average
Region 1/2/26 1/2/25 % change Bcf % change
East 697 738 -5.6 745 -6.4
Midwest 821 886 -7.3 891 -7.9
Mountain 256 256 0.0 200 28
Pacific 304 293 3.8 246 23.6
South Central 1,178 1,206 -2.3 1,144 3
Total 3,256 3,379 -3.6 3,225 1
Totals may not equal sum of components because of independent rounding.
CME (Henry Hub) Natural Gas Futures (Values listed in dekatherms) 
Date Price
1/5/26 $2.82
12/1/25 $5.08
11/3/25 $3.37
10/6/25 $3.32
9/8/25 $3.10
8/25/25 $2.76
8/4/25 $2.89
7/7/25 $3.24
5/26/25 $3.00
4/28/25 $2.96
4/7/25 $3.97
3/3/25 $3.80
2/3/25 $3.30
1/6/25 $4.05
12/9/24 $3.05
11/4/24 $1.35
10/1/24 $2.67
9/4/24 $2.05
8/6/24 $1.83
7/8/24 $2.10
6/4/24 $2.58
5/3/24 $1.67
4/2/24 $1.65
3/5/24 $1.51
2/7/24 $2.12
1/3/24 $2.57
12/5/23 $2.27
10/31/23 $3.34
10/9/23 $3.34
10/3/23 $2.71
9/5/23 $2.60
8/4/23 $2.53
7/5/23 $2.65
6/6/23 $1.95
5/9/23 $2.22
4/11/23 $2.19
3/3/23 $2.50
2/7/23 $2.35
1/4/23 $3.75
12/1/22 $6.03
11/1/22 $4.57
10/12/22 $6.60
9/13/22 $8.49
8/9/222 $7.87
7/12/22 $6.81
6/14/22 $7.68
5/17/22 $8.26
4/4/22 $5.72
3/7/22 $4.93
2/8/22 $4.30
1/11/22 $4.16
12/7/21 $3.60
11/5/21 $5.33
10/4/21 $5.80
9/13/21 $5.21
8/13/21 $3.95
7/6/21 $3.68
https://www.eia.gov/dnav/ng/hist/rngwhhdD.htm
Utility Costs of Gas (Values listed in dekatherms)
Month Mid American - IA Alliant - IA Black Hills - IA Black Hills - NE Xcel Small Volume Xcel Large Volume Kansas Gas Service Midwest Energy Spire West Spire East Summit AR Summit OK
January '26 $6.46 $6.73 $6.73 $7.24 $4.56 $4.51 $6.67 $6.91 $6.17 $6.80 $x.xx $x.xx
December '25 $6.10 $5.82 $6.36 $7.12 $4.35 $4.29 $7.20 $5.48 $6.17 $6.80 $5.27 $5.62
November '25 $5.01 $4.72 $4.98 $5.91 $4.35 $4.29 $6.06 $4.90 $5.25 $6.21 $5.27 $5.62
October '25 $3.95 $4.61 $4.88 $6.03 $4.22 $4.17 $6.93 $4.50 $5.25 $6.21 $6.99 $5.88
September '25 $3.77 $4.55 $4.60 $5.75 $4.22 $4.17 $6.95 $4.81 $5.25 $6.21 $6.99 $5.88
August '25 $5.92 $4.95 $2.64 $6.06 $4.22 $4.42 $6.27 $4.93 $5.25 $6.21 $6.99 $5.88
July '25 $6.85 $5.29 $2.34 $6.26 $4.22 $4.42 $7.19 $4.80 $5.25 $6.21 $6.99 $5.88
June '25 $6.78 $6.04 $2.33 $6.03 $4.47 $4.42 $6.64 $4.43 $5.25 $6.21 $6.99 $5.88
May '25 $6.44 $6.78 $4.71 $5.63 $4.47 $4.42 $6.60 $4.80 $5.25 $6.21 $6.99 $5.88
April '25 $5.74 $6.35 $6.64 $5.63 $4.47 $4.42 $6.45 $5.98 $5.25 $6.21 $6.99 $5.88
March '25 $5.47 $4.69 $6.92 $6.02 $3.70 $3.66 $6.45 $6.59 $5.25 $6.21 $4.36 $4.81
February '25 $4.60 $4.86 $6.29 $6.27 $3.57 $3.52 $6.41 $6.79 $5.25 $6.21 $4.36 $4.81
January '25 $5.17 $6.35 $6.33 $6.69 $3.57 $3.52 $6.67 $5.61 $5.25 $6.21 $4.36 $4.81
December '24 $4.09 $6.00 $5.84 $5.42 $3.57 $3.52 $5.12 $3.65 $5.25 $6.21 $4.36 $4.81
November '24 $4.09 $4.55 $4.64 $4.79 $3.57 $3.52 $5.31 $3.40 $7.76 $9.20 $4.36 $4.81
October '24 $3.47 $4.21 $4.47 $4.83 $3.57 $3.52 $5.36 $2.95 $7.76 $9.20 $3.60 $3.47
September '24 $2.88 $3.82 $3.90 $3.83 $3.66 $3.62 $6.18 $3.06 $7.76 $9.20 $3.60 $3.47
August '24 $4.47 $4.17 $4.74 4.02 $3.66 $3.62 $4.27 $3.33 $7.76 $9.20 $3.60 $3.47
July '24 $5.67 $6.75 $5.73 4.09 $3.66 $3.62 $4.66 $3.07 $7.76 $9.20 $3.60 $3.47
June '24 $4.96 $4.64 $4.89 $3.67 $3.71 $3.66 $4.75 $2.77 $7.76 $10.19 $3.60 $3.47
May '24 $4.07 $7.66 $5.32 $3.62 $3.71 $3.66 $4.70 $2.86 $7.76 $10.19 $3.60 $3.47
April '24 $3.61 $6.47 $6.07 $4.14 $4.20 $4.15 $4.59 $3.17 $7.76 $10.19
March '24 $4.04 $6.48 $5.79 $3.95 $4.20 $4.15 $4.64 $4.82 $7.76 $10.19
February '24 $5.09 $5.98 $5.19 $5.19 $4.20 $4.15 $4.59 $6.58 $7.76 $10.19
January '24 $4.33 $5.45 $4.81 $4.81 $4.20 $4.15 $4.85 $4.03 $7.76 $10.19
December '23 $4.26 $5.53 $4.89 $4.89 $4.66 $4.61 $5.12 $3.75 $7.76 $10.75
November '23 $4.39 $5.39 $4.64 $4.46 $4.66 $4.61 $5.32 $3.33 $7.76 $10.75
October '23 $3.55 $4.74 $4.29 $4.67 $4.66 $4.61 $5.36 $3.47 $7.76 $10.75
September '23 $3.64 $5.03 $4.38 $3.81 $3.34 $3.29 $5.55 $3.50 $7.76 $10.75
August '23 $3.01 $7.89 $2.56 $3.96 $3.34 $3.29 $8.83 $3.71 $7.67 $10.75
July '23 $2.41 $7.83 $2.69 $3.96 $3.34 $3.29 $9.57 $3.16 $7.67 $10.75
June '23 $3.64 $7.98 $1.69 $3.57 $4.19 $4.14 $8.23 $3.09 $7.78 $10.75
May '23 $3.56 $7.94 $3.51 $4.85 $4.19 $4.14 $8.85 $4.64 $7.78 $10.75
April '23 $3.17 $5.75 $4.95 $6.21 $4.19 $4.14 $8.94 $5.19 $7.78 $10.75
March '23 $4.18 $7.93 $7.43 $8.61 $4.60 $4.48 $8.46 $7.90 $7.78 $10.75
February '23 $5.71 $9.00 $9.02 $9.08 $5.98 $5.91 $9.07 $10.05 $7.67 $10.75
January '23 $7.34 $7.90 $10.29 $10.49 $7.87 $7.80 $9.60 $9.99 $7.67 $10.75
December '22 $7.49 $8.72 $9.01 $8.76 $10.04 $9.99 $8.89 $7.77
November '22 $6.58 $8.54 $7.34 $7.82 $10.04 $9.99 $9.21 $7.89
October '22 $6.16 $8.06 $6.72 $6.76 $10.04 $9.99 $12.21 $10.76
September '22 $9.60 $9.33 $9.27 $9.65 $9.38 $9.32 $12.26 $10.86
August '22 $5.79 $5.09 $6.50 $9.26 $9.38 $9.32 $10.36 $8.89
July '22 $6.45 $3.08 $4.54 $7.22 $9.38 $9.32 $10.99 $10.05
June '22 $10.33 $9.48 $4.97 $9.18 $5.27 $5.22 $9.80 $9.41
May '22 $9.16 $6.34 $5.50 $6.69 $5.27 $5.22 $8.61 $7.90
April '22 $9.81 $5.56 $6.78 $6.03 $5.27 $5.22 $8.22 $7.03
March '22 $9.29 $6.62 $6.78 $5.53 $4.93 $4.87 $8.35 $8.43
February '22 $9.25 $8.01 $6.86 $5.95 $4.93 $4.87 $7.58 $7.96
January '22 $9.36 $8.01 $7.10 $6.83 $4.93 $4.87 $7.46 $7.64
December '21 $9.76 $8.08 $6.27 $6.08 $5.31 $5.25 $7.49 $8.19
November '21 $9.67 $8.69 $6.49 $6.54 $5.31 $5.25 $6.46 $7.65
October '21 $9.25 $8.60 $6.69 $6.81 $5.31 $5.25 $6.22 $6.54
Local First of the Month Markets (Values listed in dekatherms)
Month NNG Ventura Chicago Citygates Colorado Interstate Gas SouthernStar Panhandle Enable Oneok
January '26 $5.42 $4.06 $3.55 $4.34 $4.26 $4.38 $4.29
December '25 $4.93 $4.09 $4.42 $4.51 $4.21 $4.43 $4.18
November '25 $3.07 $3.11 $2.70 $2.93 $2.85 $3.01 $2.96
October '25 $2.56 $2.58 $2.30 $2.42 $2.38 $2.44 $2.47
September '25 $2.45 $2.59 $2.10 $2.45 $2.39 $2.47 $2.41
August '25 $2.71 $2.80 $2.54 $2.63 $2.61 $2.77 $2.54
July '25 $2.70 $2.73 $2.70 $2.49 $2.51 $2.76 $2.55
June '25 $2.56 $2.81 $2.38 $2.62 $2.60 $2.80 $2.67
May '25 $2.56 $2.73 $1.70 $2.54 $2.49 $2.72 $2.59
April '25 $3.19 $3.45 $2.11 $3.12 $3.09 $3.30 $3.21
March '25 $3.54 $3.42 $3.35 $3.42 $3.35 $3.44 $3.34
February '25 $4.27 $3.46 $3.76 $3.88 $3.57 $3.59 $3.78
January '25 $4.72 $3.84 $4.00 $4.12 $3.94 $3.89 $4.12
December '24 $4.38 $3.50 $3.39 $3.96 $3.69 $3.51 $3.74
November '24 $2.22 $2.17 $2.13 $2.09 $2.07 $2.17 $2.06
October '24 $2.13 $2.17 $1.97 $2.05 $2.03 $3.18 $2.07
September '24 $1.46 $1.53 $1.31 $1.45 $1.40 $1.63 $1.44
August '24 $1.57 $1.55 $1.56 $1.46 $1.45 $1.62 $1.42
July '24 $2.20 $2.19 $2.01 $1.97 $1.99 $2.26 $2.01
June '24 $1.79 $1.97 $1.36 $1.66 $1.64 $2.01 $1.68
May '24 $1.22 $1.39 $1.12 $1.21 $1.20 $1.29 $1.24
April '24 $1.38 $1.45 $1.27 $1.28 $1.29 $1.34 $1.24
March '24 $1.47 $1.80 $1.36 $1.39 $1.36 $1.39 $1.34
February '24 $3.74 $3.17 $3.20 $3.31 $3.06 $3.04 $3.23
January '24 $3.07 $2.80 $2.73 $2.95 $2.66 $2.72 $2.85
December '23 $3.06 $2.76 $2.49 $2.83 $2.60 $2.74
November '23 $2.27 $2.78 $2.69 $2.68 $2.59 $2.59
October '23 $2.27 $2.36 $2.01 $2.24 $2.11 $2.26
September '23 $2.26 $2.29 $2.13 $2.19 $2.13 $2.20
August '23 $2.16 $2.22 $2.27 $2.12 $2.04 $2.14
July '23 $2.29 $2.36 $2.45 $2.28 $2.24 $2.33
June '23 $1.95 $1.98 $1.98 $1.87 $1.85 $1.93
May '23 $1.90 $1.97 $1.94 $1.87 $1.81 $1.82
April '23 $1.97 $2.01 $2.02 $1.89 $1.74 $1.64
March '23 $2.59 $2.49 $2.27 $3.90 $5.74 $1.99
February '23 $6.65 $4.44 $5.31 $5.20 $3.81 $3.60
January '23 $7.98 $6.04 $8.63 $8.43 $5.74 $5.86
December '22 $7.50 $7.00 $7.08 $6.88 $6.52 $6.42
November '22 $4.97 $4.95 $4.88 $4.65 $4.48 $4.48
October '22 $5.47 $5.68 $5.23 $5.41 $4.96 $4.94
September '22 $8.55 $8.79 $8.54 $8.40 $8.29 $8.57
August '22 $8.25 $8.45 $8.26 $8.08 $8.08 $8.20
July '22 $6.20 $6.34 $5.84 $6.20 $8.00 $5.96
June '22 $8.51 $8.72 $7.42 $8.50 $8.31 $8.42
May '22 $6.87 $7.11 $6.13 $6.65 $6.62 $6.64
April '22 $4.83 $5.10 $4.84 $4.77 $4.76 $4.73
March '22 $4.52 $5.53 $4.35 $4.41 $4.62 $4.20
February '22 $6.02 $7.02 $4.77 $6.68 $6.58 $6.41
January '22 $7.21 $5.68 $5.38 $5.95 $5.38 $4.84
December '21 $5.50 $5.62 $4.91 $5.59 $5.42 $5.33
November '21 $5.95 $6.29 $4.57 $5.96 $6.01 $6.07
October '21 $5.44 $5.70 $4.79 $5.58 $5.40 $5.51
September '21 $4.01 $4.22 $3.67 $4.00 $3.96 $4.24
August '21 $3.76 $3.89 $3.78 $3.78 $3.72 $3.75
July '21 $3.41 $3.46 $3.16 $3.48 $3.33 $3.38
June '21 $2.74 $2.85 $2.67 $2.83 $2.76

January 14, 2026

January 2026 – Energy News

The U.S. natural gas market begins the year with increased domestic demand, record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and legislation aimed at improving U.S. natural gas production.

Domestic Demand

The most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that the demand for natural gas in the U.S. has reached 138.72 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), which is an 8 percent increase compared to last year. This total includes 47 Bcf/d for residential and commercial use, representing a 20 percent rise from the previous year. Industrial demand has decreased to 23.6 Bcf/d, a 7 percent drop from last year, while the demand for natural gas in electric power generation is at 34.7 Bcf/d, down 1.4 percent from last year.

Weather is a major factor in domestic demand across the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently issued its 6-10 Day Temperature Outlook, predicting below-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern regions of the country. This significant drop in temperatures could lead to increased heating needs, further boosting demand for natural gas.

International Demand  

In 2025, the U.S. achieved a record global export of 111 million metric tons (mmt) of LNG. This volume surpassed Qatar's exports by nearly 20 mmt and exceeded the previous year's shipments by 23 mmt. The U.S. accounted for about a quarter of global LNG exports. In December, exports peaked at an unprecedented 11.5 mmt, setting a new monthly record. Throughout 2025, the U.S. established itself as a leader in the LNG market by setting five monthly production records.

In December, Europe remained the largest destination for U.S. LNG, importing nine mmt due to colder winter conditions that boosted demand and a continued shift away from Russian gas supplies. Additionally, Turkey increased its LNG purchases to 1.45 mmt during that month.

Production & Supply

Last year ended with natural gas storage at 3,375 billion cubic feet (Bcf). This is 1.6 percent lower than the amount recorded at the same time last year, but it is 1.0 percent above the five-year average. Although we are above the five-year average, it's important to note that the U.S. began 2025 with storage levels that were 6.5 percent higher than the five-year average for 2026.

At the end of the year, the U.S. natural gas rig count stood at 125, marking a 21.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects a rise from the beginning of the year, when the rig count was 103, which was 12.7 percent lower than the count at the start of 2024. The total U.S. natural gas supply has also grown, currently at 115.9 Bcf/d, up from 110.8 Bcf/d at the same time last year.

As we look toward longer-term production in the U.S., Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced the bipartisan SPEED Act in July 2025. This legislation aims to streamline federal permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by setting stricter timelines and reducing delays for energy infrastructure projects like pipelines and LNG export facilities. The House has passed the bill, but it still requires Senate consideration to be codified into law.

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to talk to someone about your natural gas, please call your sales representative.

Year to Year 5-year average
Region 1/2/26 1/2/25 % change Bcf % change
East 697 738 -5.6 745 -6.4
Midwest 821 886 -7.3 891 -7.9
Mountain 256 256 0.0 200 28
Pacific 304 293 3.8 246 23.6
South Central 1,178 1,206 -2.3 1,144 3
Total 3,256 3,379 -3.6 3,225 1

January 14, 2026

January 2026 – Energy News

The U.S. natural gas market begins the year with increased domestic demand, record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and legislation aimed at improving U.S. natural gas production.

Domestic Demand

The most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that the demand for natural gas in the U.S. has reached 138.72 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), which is an 8 percent increase compared to last year. This total includes 47 Bcf/d for residential and commercial use, representing a 20 percent rise from the previous year. Industrial demand has decreased to 23.6 Bcf/d, a 7 percent drop from last year, while the demand for natural gas in electric power generation is at 34.7 Bcf/d, down 1.4 percent from last year.

Weather is a major factor in domestic demand across the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently issued its 6-10 Day Temperature Outlook, predicting below-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern regions of the country. This significant drop in temperatures could lead to increased heating needs, further boosting demand for natural gas.

International Demand  

In 2025, the U.S. achieved a record global export of 111 million metric tons (mmt) of LNG. This volume surpassed Qatar's exports by nearly 20 mmt and exceeded the previous year's shipments by 23 mmt. The U.S. accounted for about a quarter of global LNG exports. In December, exports peaked at an unprecedented 11.5 mmt, setting a new monthly record. Throughout 2025, the U.S. established itself as a leader in the LNG market by setting five monthly production records.

In December, Europe remained the largest destination for U.S. LNG, importing nine mmt due to colder winter conditions that boosted demand and a continued shift away from Russian gas supplies. Additionally, Turkey increased its LNG purchases to 1.45 mmt during that month.

Production & Supply

Last year ended with natural gas storage at 3,375 billion cubic feet (Bcf). This is 1.6 percent lower than the amount recorded at the same time last year, but it is 1.0 percent above the five-year average. Although we are above the five-year average, it's important to note that the U.S. began 2025 with storage levels that were 6.5 percent higher than the five-year average for 2026.

At the end of the year, the U.S. natural gas rig count stood at 125, marking a 21.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects a rise from the beginning of the year, when the rig count was 103, which was 12.7 percent lower than the count at the start of 2024. The total U.S. natural gas supply has also grown, currently at 115.9 Bcf/d, up from 110.8 Bcf/d at the same time last year.

As we look toward longer-term production in the U.S., Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced the bipartisan SPEED Act in July 2025. This legislation aims to streamline federal permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by setting stricter timelines and reducing delays for energy infrastructure projects like pipelines and LNG export facilities. The House has passed the bill, but it still requires Senate consideration to be codified into law.

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to talk to someone about your natural gas, please call your sales representative.

January 14, 2026

January 2026 – Energy News

The U.S. natural gas market begins the year with increased domestic demand, record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and legislation aimed at improving U.S. natural gas production.

Domestic Demand

The most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that the demand for natural gas in the U.S. has reached 138.72 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), which is an 8 percent increase compared to last year. This total includes 47 Bcf/d for residential and commercial use, representing a 20 percent rise from the previous year. Industrial demand has decreased to 23.6 Bcf/d, a 7 percent drop from last year, while the demand for natural gas in electric power generation is at 34.7 Bcf/d, down 1.4 percent from last year.

Weather is a major factor in domestic demand across the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently issued its 6-10 Day Temperature Outlook, predicting below-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern regions of the country. This significant drop in temperatures could lead to increased heating needs, further boosting demand for natural gas.

International Demand  

In 2025, the U.S. achieved a record global export of 111 million metric tons (mmt) of LNG. This volume surpassed Qatar's exports by nearly 20 mmt and exceeded the previous year's shipments by 23 mmt. The U.S. accounted for about a quarter of global LNG exports. In December, exports peaked at an unprecedented 11.5 mmt, setting a new monthly record. Throughout 2025, the U.S. established itself as a leader in the LNG market by setting five monthly production records.

In December, Europe remained the largest destination for U.S. LNG, importing nine mmt due to colder winter conditions that boosted demand and a continued shift away from Russian gas supplies. Additionally, Turkey increased its LNG purchases to 1.45 mmt during that month.

Production & Supply

Last year ended with natural gas storage at 3,375 billion cubic feet (Bcf). This is 1.6 percent lower than the amount recorded at the same time last year, but it is 1.0 percent above the five-year average. Although we are above the five-year average, it's important to note that the U.S. began 2025 with storage levels that were 6.5 percent higher than the five-year average for 2026.

At the end of the year, the U.S. natural gas rig count stood at 125, marking a 21.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects a rise from the beginning of the year, when the rig count was 103, which was 12.7 percent lower than the count at the start of 2024. The total U.S. natural gas supply has also grown, currently at 115.9 Bcf/d, up from 110.8 Bcf/d at the same time last year.

As we look toward longer-term production in the U.S., Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced the bipartisan SPEED Act in July 2025. This legislation aims to streamline federal permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by setting stricter timelines and reducing delays for energy infrastructure projects like pipelines and LNG export facilities. The House has passed the bill, but it still requires Senate consideration to be codified into law.

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to talk to someone about your natural gas, please call your sales representative.

January 2026 – Energy News

The U.S. natural gas market begins the year with increased domestic demand, record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and legislation aimed at improving U.S. natural gas production.

Domestic Demand

The most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that the demand for natural gas in the U.S. has reached 138.72 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), which is an 8 percent increase compared to last year. This total includes 47 Bcf/d for residential and commercial use, representing a 20 percent rise from the previous year. Industrial demand has decreased to 23.6 Bcf/d, a 7 percent drop from last year, while the demand for natural gas in electric power generation is at 34.7 Bcf/d, down 1.4 percent from last year.

Weather is a major factor in domestic demand across the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently issued its 6-10 Day Temperature Outlook, predicting below-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern regions of the country. This significant drop in temperatures could lead to increased heating needs, further boosting demand for natural gas.

International Demand  

In 2025, the U.S. achieved a record global export of 111 million metric tons (mmt) of LNG. This volume surpassed Qatar's exports by nearly 20 mmt and exceeded the previous year's shipments by 23 mmt. The U.S. accounted for about a quarter of global LNG exports. In December, exports peaked at an unprecedented 11.5 mmt, setting a new monthly record. Throughout 2025, the U.S. established itself as a leader in the LNG market by setting five monthly production records.

In December, Europe remained the largest destination for U.S. LNG, importing nine mmt due to colder winter conditions that boosted demand and a continued shift away from Russian gas supplies. Additionally, Turkey increased its LNG purchases to 1.45 mmt during that month.

Production & Supply

Last year ended with natural gas storage at 3,375 billion cubic feet (Bcf). This is 1.6 percent lower than the amount recorded at the same time last year, but it is 1.0 percent above the five-year average. Although we are above the five-year average, it's important to note that the U.S. began 2025 with storage levels that were 6.5 percent higher than the five-year average for 2026.

At the end of the year, the U.S. natural gas rig count stood at 125, marking a 21.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects a rise from the beginning of the year, when the rig count was 103, which was 12.7 percent lower than the count at the start of 2024. The total U.S. natural gas supply has also grown, currently at 115.9 Bcf/d, up from 110.8 Bcf/d at the same time last year.

As we look toward longer-term production in the U.S., Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced the bipartisan SPEED Act in July 2025. This legislation aims to streamline federal permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by setting stricter timelines and reducing delays for energy infrastructure projects like pipelines and LNG export facilities. The House has passed the bill, but it still requires Senate consideration to be codified into law.

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to talk to someone about your natural gas, please call your sales representative.

January 14, 2026

January 2026 – Energy News

The U.S. natural gas market begins the year with increased domestic demand, record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and legislation aimed at improving U.S. natural gas production.

Domestic Demand

The most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that the demand for natural gas in the U.S. has reached 138.72 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), which is an 8 percent increase compared to last year. This total includes 47 Bcf/d for residential and commercial use, representing a 20 percent rise from the previous year. Industrial demand has decreased to 23.6 Bcf/d, a 7 percent drop from last year, while the demand for natural gas in electric power generation is at 34.7 Bcf/d, down 1.4 percent from last year.

Weather is a major factor in domestic demand across the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently issued its 6-10 Day Temperature Outlook, predicting below-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern regions of the country. This significant drop in temperatures could lead to increased heating needs, further boosting demand for natural gas.

International Demand  

In 2025, the U.S. achieved a record global export of 111 million metric tons (mmt) of LNG. This volume surpassed Qatar's exports by nearly 20 mmt and exceeded the previous year's shipments by 23 mmt. The U.S. accounted for about a quarter of global LNG exports. In December, exports peaked at an unprecedented 11.5 mmt, setting a new monthly record. Throughout 2025, the U.S. established itself as a leader in the LNG market by setting five monthly production records.

In December, Europe remained the largest destination for U.S. LNG, importing nine mmt due to colder winter conditions that boosted demand and a continued shift away from Russian gas supplies. Additionally, Turkey increased its LNG purchases to 1.45 mmt during that month.

Production & Supply

Last year ended with natural gas storage at 3,375 billion cubic feet (Bcf). This is 1.6 percent lower than the amount recorded at the same time last year, but it is 1.0 percent above the five-year average. Although we are above the five-year average, it's important to note that the U.S. began 2025 with storage levels that were 6.5 percent higher than the five-year average for 2026.

At the end of the year, the U.S. natural gas rig count stood at 125, marking a 21.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects a rise from the beginning of the year, when the rig count was 103, which was 12.7 percent lower than the count at the start of 2024. The total U.S. natural gas supply has also grown, currently at 115.9 Bcf/d, up from 110.8 Bcf/d at the same time last year.

As we look toward longer-term production in the U.S., Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced the bipartisan SPEED Act in July 2025. This legislation aims to streamline federal permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by setting stricter timelines and reducing delays for energy infrastructure projects like pipelines and LNG export facilities. The House has passed the bill, but it still requires Senate consideration to be codified into law.

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to talk to someone about your natural gas, please call your sales representative.

January 14, 2026

January 2026 – Energy News

The U.S. natural gas market begins the year with increased domestic demand, record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, and legislation aimed at improving U.S. natural gas production.

Domestic Demand

The most recent report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that the demand for natural gas in the U.S. has reached 138.72 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), which is an 8 percent increase compared to last year. This total includes 47 Bcf/d for residential and commercial use, representing a 20 percent rise from the previous year. Industrial demand has decreased to 23.6 Bcf/d, a 7 percent drop from last year, while the demand for natural gas in electric power generation is at 34.7 Bcf/d, down 1.4 percent from last year.

Weather is a major factor in domestic demand across the U.S. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently issued its 6-10 Day Temperature Outlook, predicting below-normal temperatures across much of the Midwest, Northeast, and Southern regions of the country. This significant drop in temperatures could lead to increased heating needs, further boosting demand for natural gas.

International Demand  

In 2025, the U.S. achieved a record global export of 111 million metric tons (mmt) of LNG. This volume surpassed Qatar's exports by nearly 20 mmt and exceeded the previous year's shipments by 23 mmt. The U.S. accounted for about a quarter of global LNG exports. In December, exports peaked at an unprecedented 11.5 mmt, setting a new monthly record. Throughout 2025, the U.S. established itself as a leader in the LNG market by setting five monthly production records.

In December, Europe remained the largest destination for U.S. LNG, importing nine mmt due to colder winter conditions that boosted demand and a continued shift away from Russian gas supplies. Additionally, Turkey increased its LNG purchases to 1.45 mmt during that month.

Production & Supply

Last year ended with natural gas storage at 3,375 billion cubic feet (Bcf). This is 1.6 percent lower than the amount recorded at the same time last year, but it is 1.0 percent above the five-year average. Although we are above the five-year average, it's important to note that the U.S. began 2025 with storage levels that were 6.5 percent higher than the five-year average for 2026.

At the end of the year, the U.S. natural gas rig count stood at 125, marking a 21.4 percent increase compared to the previous year. This growth reflects a rise from the beginning of the year, when the rig count was 103, which was 12.7 percent lower than the count at the start of 2024. The total U.S. natural gas supply has also grown, currently at 115.9 Bcf/d, up from 110.8 Bcf/d at the same time last year.

As we look toward longer-term production in the U.S., Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Rep. Jared Golden (D-ME) introduced the bipartisan SPEED Act in July 2025. This legislation aims to streamline federal permitting under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) by setting stricter timelines and reducing delays for energy infrastructure projects like pipelines and LNG export facilities. The House has passed the bill, but it still requires Senate consideration to be codified into law.

If you have any questions about the information in this newsletter or would like to talk to someone about your natural gas, please call your sales representative.

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