API urges Interior to issue science-based Atlantic survey permits

WASHINGTON, July 18, 2014 – The American Petroleum Institute today welcomed the Department of the Interior’s decision to issue permits for seismic surveys in the Atlantic, but warned limitations not based in science might prevent some companies from seeking permits and performing surveys.

“Offshore energy exploration and production in the Atlantic could bring new jobs and higher revenues to states and local communities, while adding to our country’s capabilities as an energy superpower,” said API Upstream Director Erik Milito. “Now that the decision to issue permits has been made, we urge the administration to move quickly so that surveying operations can begin next spring.

“We remain concerned by the lack of scientific support for certain requirements the administration wants to impose on seismic surveys in the Atlantic. Operators already take great care to protect wildlife, and the best science and decades of experience prove that there is no danger to marine mammal populations.

“Restrictions that have no scientific basis can easily discourage exploration, private investment and job creation. Regulators should rely only on sound science when setting permit requirements.”

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.