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United States EIA deepens forecast for drop in United States natgas output in 2024

U.S. gas production will drop more this year than earlier estimates and demand will hit a record, the U.S. Energy Information Administration stated in its Short Term Energy Outlook on Tuesday.

EIA forecasted dry gas production will relieve from a record 103.8 billion cubic feet daily (bcfd) in 2023 to 102.1 bcfd in 2024 as a number of producers minimize drilling activities after gas costs fell to more than three-year lows in February, March and April.

In the May edition of its STEO report, EIA had actually anticipated this year's output to decline to around 103 bcfd.

For next year, the company now forecasts output would increase to 104.4 bcfd, likewise a cut from its previous projection of 104.8 bcfd.

This report is bullish for natural gas, Rabobank strategist Joe DeLaura stated, keeping in mind that lower output projections ought to ease oversupply concerns in the long-term.

Decreasing output will put upward pressure on gas rates this year, EIA stated. The company raised its projection for 2024 average Henry Hub spot gas rates to $2.46 per million British thermal units (Btu), 13% higher than its previous projection. Prices are anticipated to typical $3.24 next year.

Higher costs will support the go back to development in output next year, EIA said.

( It) will incentivize more drilling in the natural gas-producing Appalachia and Haynesville regions, and more associated natural gas production in the Permian area, the agency included.

EIA anticipates domestic gas intake to rise from last year's record of 89.1 bcfd to 89.4 bcfd this year and 89.9 bcfd in 2025. Its earlier forecasts had actually put demand at around 89.3 bcfd this year and 89.6 bcfd next year.

(source: Reuters)