This commentary is in response to the July 23 Roanoke Times editorial “Why do exports matter?” The example they use stems from the revelation that a portion of the fracked gas to be transported by the proposed MVP pipeline is destined for India. The wisdom of Senator Tim Kaine’s efforts to fast track the product to Europe is the more pertinent question.

Much of Europe depends on Russian methane gas (serving about 25 percent of the continent’s needs) shipped through Ukraine. Russia has threatened to withhold the gas over the crises in Ukraine. This appears to be the senator’s rationale for sponsoring legislation to fast track the exportation of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to Europe – providing our allies with energy independence. That gas would be supplied in part by the MVP.

But is it necessary to frack the Virginias for Europe?

Read the full article HERE.