Washington, D.C.: The Senate’s vote to confirm Rick Perry as the new Energy Secretary earlier today has been applauded by leading industry groups the Natural Gas Supply Association and Center for Liquefied Natural Gas. Commenting, Dena E. Wiggins, President and CEO of the Natural Gas Supply Association said: “We welcome former Governor Perry’s Senate confirmation to lead the Department of Energy.  He assumes office at a time of tremendous opportunity for the energy sector to provide our country with affordable, abundant and clean energy.  “As Secretary of Energy, his experience governing the nation’s biggest energy-producing state will prove invaluable.  One-fourth of the nation’s natural gas is produced in Texas, giving him a keen appreciation for the importance of natural gas to jobs, the economy, reliability and cleaner air.” Charlie Riedl, Executive Director of Center for Liquefied Natural Gas added: “Secretary Perry has already been a strong advocate for LNG exports during his time as Governor of Texas and we look forward to working with him at what is a crucial juncture in the development of the global industry. By ensuring a prompt and transparent permitting process, we can make certain that domestic projects have the level playing field they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive international market.”