NextDecade Senior Vice President David Keane recently spoke at the Rally in the Valley 2.0 event in Brownsville, Texas. The event aimed to connect high school students with internship opportunities in the energy industry. Keane emphasized the significance of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and highlighted NextDecade’s project, Rio Grande LNG, a multi-billion dollar LNG export terminal. At full capacity, Rio Grande LNG will produce enough LNG to heat 34 million homes annually.
Keane explained that LNG is essentially cooled methane or natural gas, which is stored in special tanks and transported via ships to customers around the world. He also discussed NextDecade’s subsidiary, Next Carbon Solutions, which focuses on carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technology. Through CCS, Rio Grande LNG aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 90% and potentially reach 95%. The company has obtained nine patents for its CCS process and is in discussions with global companies to offer CCS services globally.
Keane addressed the concern of climate change and emphasized the industry’s responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Despite this, he highlighted the importance of the oil and gas industry, pointing out that many products and technologies rely on hydrocarbons for manufacturing. He held up his cell phone as an example, stating that it wouldn’t exist without hydrocarbons. Other examples he mentioned include TVs, plastics, medicines, cosmetics, and cleaning products.
In his closing remarks, Keane offered advice to students considering careers in the energy industry. He emphasized the importance of flexibility, resilience, and self-reflection. Keane encouraged students to listen to their gut, have confidence in themselves, and pursue what they love.
Source: Rally in the Valley 2.0 event, Brownsville, Texas, NextDecade Senior Vice President David Keane.