Episode Details

Natural gas demand is being reshaped in real time.

Live from Houston during CERAWeek 2026, Energy Pipeline Podcast host Josh Lowrey sits down with Karen Harbert, President and CEO of the American Gas Association, to break down what’s behind this shift.

From powering nearly 187 million Americans to supporting LNG exports and global allies, Harbert explains why natural gas remains a strategic advantage—and how infrastructure, permitting, and long-term demand are redefining the energy landscape.

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast

00:37 Houston and Rice Memories

02:18 What Is AGA

04:11 Gas Back in Demand

08:29 Energy Poverty and Fertilizer

10:39 Why Energy Realism Matters

13:46 Pipeline Politics in States

16:11 AI Driving Energy Demand

18:05 Security Case for AI Race

19:46 Why CERAWeek Works

20:15 Houston Energy Comeback

20:55 Middle East Data Center Boom

21:39 Build Baby Build LNG

22:39 Will Gas Prices Rise

24:57 Permitting Reform Fight

27:45 Energy Evolution Not Transition

29:16 AI Demand And Emissions

30:01 Methane Cuts Best Practices

31:52 Serving 189 Million Customers

34:43 Capital Markets And Ratings

37:25 Closing Thanks And Where To Find

37:41 Utility Workers First Responders