Washington, D.C. – The American Gas Association (AGA) hosted a media roundtable discussion with Incoming Chairman, Larry Borgard, president and chief operating officer (COO), Utilities, of Integrys Energy Group, Inc. on Friday, Decmeber 2, 2011. Alongside AGA President and CEO, Dave McCurdy, Borgard spoke about the challenges and opportunities the natural gas industry faces moving into 2012.
“It is a distinct honor to be named AGA Chairman Elect for 2012,” said Borgard. “It is a remarkable time in our industry, as the profile of natural gas as a clean-burning, domestic fuel has been raised in the public’s mind over the past few years. Thanks to the abundance of natural gas being produced from shale, both the natural gas supply picture and subsequent natural gas price outlook are very positive, which translates to lower and more stable monthly customer bills.”
The natural gas industry has never before had the tremendous opportunities that it has today, and the key is to prepare for them and be ready to take full advantage of them, leading to continued benefits for customers and those investing in and working in the industry. Borgard’s chairman theme for 2012 captures that thought perfectly: “Creating a Future-Ready Natural Gas Industry Today.”
“Our industry is poised for tremendous growth, provided we are also prepared to meet the challenges we face,” said Borgard. “First and foremost we need to make sure that our stakeholders have confidence in our industry. Our highest priority is delivering natural gas to our customers safely and reliably. We hope to see Congress reauthorize the Pipeline Safety Act before the end of the year.”
“I believe that natural gas vehicles (NGVs) represent one key area of demand growth for our industry,” continued Borgard. “As a transportation fuel, natural gas is already transforming fleet vehicles, but ultimately natural gas vehicles will be the second car in American garages. Integrys is one of many companies that recognize the benefits of natural gas and is involved in making capital investments in natural gas refueling stations in an effort to expand existing infrastructure.”
Integrys, based in Chicago, IL, is a leading regional energy company with nearly 5,000 employees across the Midwest and beyond. Integrys represents six regulated and non-regulated subsidiaries as they come together as one company with a shared commitment to providing customers with the best value in energy and related services.