Robert Dodge | 202-682-8127 | dodger@api.org
WASHINGTON, February 11, 2009 - Renewable energy sources will be a growing part of America’s energy future. But it is wrong to suggest that re-imposing the federal moratoria on offshore exploration and development is a step toward that goal. In fact, oil and natural gas stand as the logical bridge to that future, and even with a significant increase in the use of alternatives, are expected to be dominant fuel sources in 2030 and beyond. Americans have clearly said in public opinion polls that they want to develop their energy resources and reduce our nation’s dependence on imported oil.
The oil and natural gas industry has established itself as a good steward of the oceans and is now sharing its best practices with other sectors of the marine transportation industry. Through improved technology and training the industry has operated in the Gulf of Mexico without a significant oil spill, even in the face of powerful hurricanes. Leases on the Outer Continental Shelf produce about 1.4 million barrels of oil per day. And the Minerals Management Service estimates that since 1980 less than 0.001 percent of the oil produced there has spilled. That is significantly less than the volume of natural seeps from the Gulf of Mexico.
We welcome the development of green jobs. But in seeking to create new jobs, we must not adopt policies that could destroy oil and natural gas industry jobs; exploration and production jobs typically pay more than double the average American wage and already are helping to support families and communities. The development of onshore and offshore resources that Congress has kept off limits for decades could create 160,000 new jobs, $1.7 trillion in revenues to federal, state and local governments and greater energy security.
Our companies are eager to safely develop the oil and natural gas resources that belong to the American people, create jobs and help fuel an economic recovery and future growth.
Updated: February 11, 2009