It can do that by either restricting exports or compelling LNG exporters to find new gas sources.

On Friday the U.S. government said it was restricting exports, re-exports and transfers of technology and equipment to the Yuzhno-Kirinskoye field.

The EU is also considering restricting exports of technology for deep-sea drilling, shale gas and Arctic energy exploration under one of the options, diplomats said.

But the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association (Appea) said restricting exports was a short-term measure that would not address long-term problems with supply.

The EU was also weighing restricting exports of technology for deep-sea drilling, shale and Arctic energy exploration and so-called civilian-military "dual use" items, diplomats said.