Energizing Utah
Mark Green
Posted October 4, 2016
Utah is an important energy producer, ranking 11th among the 50 states in both oil and natural gas output, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) figures.
Click on the thumbnail to see a two-page energy infographic for the Beehive State.
Like a number of states, Utah’s oil production has seen significant growth recently, doubling over the past decade while tying an all-time high in 2014. The state’s marketed natural gas production has grown about 60 percent since 2002. Meanwhile, the state also is home to vast deposits of oil shale – kerogen-rich rock that releases oil when heated – that could be the largest in the world.
In terms of infrastructure, Utah has five refineries, all located in the Salt Lake City area, representing about a quarter of the region’s refining capacity. Utah also is part of a major natural gas pipeline corridor that transports gas from Wyoming and western Colorado to other western markets.
As for energy use, Utah consumed more coal than any other energy source in 2014, EIA says. Coal is the state’s leading power source for generating electricity (77 percent), with natural gas second (18.6 percent). According to EIA, natural gas’ share of electricity generation is expected to grow in the future.
America’s energy renaissance is lifting the economies of the states and the country overall. The U.S. is becoming more energy self-sufficient, more secure in the world and – thanks to increased natural gas use – we’re leading the world in reducing energy-related carbon emissions. To sustain and grow domestic energy production, pro-development policies are needed. Page 2 of the infographic shows the benefits of such an approach.
Energy is essential for virtually every aspect of our daily lives. It powers national, state and local economies, gets us to work and goes into products we rely on for health and comfort. Safe, responsible energy development here at home is linked to national security as well as Americans’ individual prosperity and liberty – in Utah and all the 50 states of energy.
About The Author
Mark Green joined API after a career in newspaper journalism, including 16 years as national editorial writer for The Oklahoman in the paper’s Washington bureau. Previously, Mark was a reporter, copy editor and sports editor at an assortment of newspapers. He earned his journalism degree from the University of Oklahoma and master’s in journalism and public affairs from American University. He and his wife Pamela have two grown children and six grandchildren.