U.S. Natural Gas Output to Hit Record High in 2026
The Energy Information Administration's August 2026 Short-Term Energy Outlook forecasts that U.S. natural gas output will reach a record high of 122.5 Bcf/d in 2026, up from the previous year's record of 118.5 Bcf/d.
The growth is largely driven by the Permian Basin and the Haynesville formation, with the former accounting for a 6% increase over 2025 levels to average 29.2 Bcf/d in 2026.
The Permian's expansion is fueled by high oil prices and a rising gas-to-oil ratio, which makes it more economical to drill for associated gas alongside oil production.
Haynesville production, on the other hand, is being pulled by stable gas prices and its proximity to LNG export infrastructure, with operators drilling primarily for natural gas rather than oil.