Overhauling the permitting process to build out natural gas infrastructure with less legal wrangling may be unattainable during an election year, but it has to happen soon as industrial consumption is on the rise, according to a top executive.

CEO Amy Andryszak of the Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA) discussed the need for a makeover of the permitting system during a wide-ranging interview with NGI. The trade association represents 27 interstate natural gas transmission pipeline and storage companies. These long-haul, large diameter pipelines move natural gas from areas of the country where it’s produced to areas where it’s going to be consumed. 

Today, there appears to be “a much more realistic and pragmatic view of natural gas,” Andryszak said....