Advancing energy infrastructure projects will enhance U.S. energy security

WASHINGTON, June 24, 2014 ─ The American Petroleum Institute (API) strongly supports H.R. 3301, the North American Energy Infrastructure Act, which would modernize and reform the approval process for cross-border energy projects. API Downstream Group Director Bob Greco said we need to fix the broken permitting process for approving energy projects to put an end to unjustified delays of much needed pipelines.

“One of the biggest threats to our current energy revolution is government imposed roadblocks to building infrastructure,” said Greco. “The Keystone XL review debacle is a prime example of bureaucratic red tape stifling a promising project that would create thousands of jobs and enhance our energy security.

“As our North American energy production grows, building the infrastructure to move these supplies to consumers is vital because Americans depend on stable, affordable energy to fuel their daily lives.

“The U.S. should have a robust and consistent oversight process for all energy infrastructure projects, but the process should be fair and balanced. We need to reduce regulatory burdens on the private sector to stimulate investment in our new energy reality. Americans need energy policies that will create jobs, power our economy, and lower prices for consumers.”

API thanked U.S. Representatives Fred Upton (R- Mich.) and Gene Green (D-Texas) for their leadership in trying to implement a transparent, modern and standardized permitting process for all energy projects that cross U.S. borders.

API represents all segments of America’s oil and natural gas industry. Its more than 600 members produce, process, and distribute most of the nation’s energy. The industry also supports 9.8 million U.S. jobs and 8 percent of the U.S. economy.