The U.S. is on track for record natural gas production in 2026, with the U.S. Energy Information Administration forecasting average output of 122.5 billion cubic feet per day (Bcf/d), surpassing the 2025 record of 118.5 Bcf/d. Production rose 4% in the first half of the year, driven mainly by the Permian Basin and Haynesville region.

Permian gas production is expected to rise 6% to 29.2 Bcf/d, supported by strong oil prices and increasing gas output from oil wells. Haynesville production is forecast to grow 9% as drilling remains profitable at a projected $3.44/MMBtu Henry Hub price. Growing U.S. gas production is also supported by demand from LNG export terminals and Gulf Coast industrial users.

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