Exxon Mobil cautiously optimistic on LNG

DOHA, Qatar, Dec. 9 (UPI) -- Sustained increases in global energy demand require major investments in alternatives such as liquefied natural gas, Exxon Mobile officials said in Qatar.

International energy players descended on Doha for the International Petroleum Technology Conference.

Tom Walters, president of Exxon Mobil Gas and Power Marketing Co., said LNG offers a flexible solution to strains on conventional resources.

"The world's growing demand for gas will challenge our industry to deliver projects on a scale that was barely considered even a decade ago," he said.

LNG has a transport advantage over conventional natural gas as LNG can travel on cargo vessels, compared with pipeline restrictions for natural gas.

Walters cautioned, however, that LNG projects require expansive operations compared with conventional local options.

"This creates challenges for our industry because with scale comes complexity," he warned.