Analysis: Propane freeze squeeze may harden resistance to U.S. oil exports

[NickB79]

http://www.reuters.com/article/2014/01/26/us-energy-propane-usa-analysis-idUSBREA0P0K520140126

(Reuters) - A shortage of propane heating fuel during a brutal U.S. cold snap this month threatens to sharpen the year's most urgent energy policy debate - how much of its newfound shale oil and gas bounty should America export?

Millions felt the pinch last week as another wave of biting, bitter cold strained already low propane supplies in the Midwest, causing prices to surge three-fold over two weeks to record highs and forcing suppliers to ration deliveries.

While the shortage was likely caused by a confluence of events, including extraordinary cold, a temporary pipeline shut-down, and low stocks, some industry observers and at least one politician blamed the spike in part on soaring exports of liquefied petroleum gases (LPGs) such as propane.

Good. It's time Americans realized energy companies have no national loyalty, only loyalty to money, and will fuck over Americans for profit EVERY. CHANCE. THEY. GET.

Now if you'll excuse me, I have to throw a few more logs into my high-efficiency woodstove (my symbolic way of giving the energy companies the middle finger).

[Spider Jerusalem]

1. The way Americans have effectively been fucking the planet for decades?

Until very recently the USA was importing over half of its oil.

[madokie]

2. Personally I think we shouldn't allow any exports of any fuel for any reason

No oil or gas to be exported.

[Spider Jerusalem]

3. That's hilarious considering the US has been import-dependent since the 1970's.