In a recent interview on BBC Breakfast, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage stated, “most of our gas now comes from Montana in the (US) Midwest.” This assertion raises questions about the accuracy of his claims regarding the sources of natural gas imported by the UK. Contrary to Farage’s statement, data reveals that the United States is actually the UK’s third largest source of gas, primarily dealing in liquid natural gas (LNG), with Norway taking the lead.
Unpacking the Claims
Mr Farage’s comments are not new; he made similar statements earlier this month, asserting that the bulk of the UK’s gas imports are derived from Montana. However, a closer examination of the facts indicates a significant discrepancy. Provisional figures from 2025 show that while the UK imported over 463,000 gigawatt hours (GWh) of gas, a staggering 320,249 GWh originated from Norway. The United States, in comparison, contributed 104,360 GWh, clearly positioning it as a secondary supplier.
Montana, however, is a minor player in the US gas production landscape. Data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that in 2024, Montana produced approximately 40 billion cubic feet of natural gas, accounting for a mere 0.1% of the total US output. Given these figures, the notion that Montana is a significant source for UK gas imports seems unfounded.
The Role of Liquid Natural Gas
The type of gas exported from the US to the UK is exclusively liquid natural gas (LNG), which is transported in a super-chilled state by ship rather than via pipeline. This method has enabled the US to become the UK’s leading supplier of LNG. However, the specific contribution of Montana to this supply chain remains ambiguous, as no concrete evidence has been provided to substantiate claims of gas exports from the state to the UK.
In 2025, the US Census Bureau reported that the UK imported around $2.8 billion worth of natural gas from just four states: Georgia, Louisiana, Maryland, and Texas. This pattern further underlines the fact that Montana is not a significant contributor to the UK’s natural gas supply.
Montana’s Gas Production and Exports
Interestingly, while Montana’s gas production is outstripped by its consumption, it does export a portion of its output—primarily to Canada. According to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, the state’s natural gas consumption exceeds production, yet it still plays a role in the regional energy market.
In 2025, Montana’s gas exports amounted to only $525,083, all directed towards Canada. This figure pales in comparison to the larger gas-exporting states, suggesting that Montana’s influence on the international gas market, particularly in relation to the UK, is negligible.
The Bigger Picture
Farage’s comments could be interpreted as a misrepresentation of the UK’s energy landscape. With Norway firmly established as the primary source of gas imports, and the US serving as a key supplier of LNG, the dynamics of energy sourcing are complex and multifaceted.
Why it Matters
The accuracy of statements regarding energy imports is crucial, particularly as the UK navigates the complexities of energy security in an increasingly volatile geopolitical climate. Misleading claims can shape public perception and policy discussions, potentially undermining efforts to establish a robust and reliable energy strategy. As the UK seeks to diversify its energy sources and enhance resilience, understanding the true origins of its gas supply is essential for informed decision-making and public discourse.
