Report: The Economic Benefits of Natural Gas Pipeline Development on the Manufacturing Sector

Nov 12, 2018

A new comprehensive study from IHS Economics and the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) reveals how natural gas has strengthened manufacturing, encouraged U.S. manufacturing growth and employment and highlights the positive impact to communities around the United States.

Manufacturers use natural gas for fuel, such as drying, melting, machine drive and space heating as well as a feedstock in refining, chemicals and primary metals sectors. Domestic natural gas has transformed the U.S. economy, made our companies more competitive, created jobs and put money back in the pockets of working Americans.

But the story doesn’t end here. Over the next decade, demand for natural gas will increase dramatically, driven by manufacturing growth and electric power generation. The United States has more than enough supply to meet this growing demand. However, we will need major investments in new infrastructure, particularly natural gas pipelines, to ensure manufacturers have a steady, reliable stream. By the Numbers

Expanded energy access—1.9 million jobs economy-wide in 2015
Shale gas put an extra $1,337 back in the pocket of the average American family
New pipelines meant more than 347,000 jobs, with 60,000 in manufacturing
Total natural gas demand is poised to increase by 40% over the next decade. Key drivers will be manufacturing and power generation. U.S. supply is expected to increase by 48% over the next decade to meet new demand.