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GEORGIA PETROLEUM COUNCIL: New offshore energy plan will benefit Georgia consumers and strengthen national security


202.682.8114 | press@api.org


ATLANTA, January 4, 2018 – Georgia Petroleum Council Executive Director Hunter Hopkins today welcomed the Interior Department’s new proposal for a five-year offshore oil and natural gas leasing plan, putting Georgia on the right track towards greater energy production, new jobs and economic growth.

“The new offshore energy plan is welcome news for Georgia’s energy consumers, small businesses, and our economy,” said Hopkins. “The administration has recognized that accessing our abundant offshore resources in a safe and environmentally responsible way will help our nation meet our energy needs well into the future while boosting our state economy, spurring investment and creating jobs.”

A recent study showed that the U.S. natural gas and oil industry supported 142,700 jobs in Georgia and contributed $13.65 billion to the state’s economy in 2015. 

“The U.S. natural gas and oil industry is continuously developing and improving safety standards, programs, new technologies, and best practices to protect our workers and the environment,” continued Hopkins.  “Exploring what energy resources lie off our coasts is an important part of a strong, forward-looking energy strategy that strengthens our national security and provides a foundation for long-term, sustainable economic growth. This new five-year plan is part of a long process, and we look forward to engaging every step of the way to ensure we have an offshore energy strategy that helps provide affordable energy sources to Georgia’s consumers, manufacturers, and businesses.”

Since 2010, more than 100 exploration and production industry standards were created or strengthened, including standards for safety and environmental management, well design, blowout prevention and spill response.

The Georgia Petroleum Council is a division of API, which represents all segments of America’s oil and natural gas industry. Its more than 625 members produce, process, and distribute most of the nation’s energy. The industry supports 10.3 million U.S. jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of more than 40 million Americans. 

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