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The U.S. must use all its resources, the Arctic included, for energy security
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Your Sept. 10 editorial "Thin Ice: Access to Arctic Oil Is Not an Energy Solution" does not accurately depict Arctic energy resources and the significant opportunity they provide for America's energy and economic future.
According to the federal government, the U.S. Arctic Outer Continental Shelf could contain tremendous oil and gas resources that would advance America's goals of energy independence, as well as create more than 50,000 U.S. jobs nationwide, including steel manufacturers, pipefitters and other workers here in Pennsylvania; generate $193 billion in revenues for federal, state and local governments; lower our trade deficit; and ensure stable prices for consumers.
Even with expanded, environmentally responsible development of the Arctic and lower 48 shale resources, we would still not meet domestic demand. Although the Arctic resource base is large and would offer tremendous benefit to the entire nation, it would not replace supplies of natural gas developed in the Marcellus. And given the location of energy-intensive industries such as petrochemical and steel manufacturers, it's more likely that Arctic resources will be marketed to West Coast economies and Marcellus supplies will be utilized in East Coast markets.
Fortunately, America's abundant shale resources have lowered consumer costs and U.S. carbon emissions. And additional supplies of natural gas will promote expanded manufacturing and opportunities to utilize natural gas for other uses, such as natural-gas vehicles and as a source of backup generation for wind and solar power.
Instead of importing almost 8 million barrels of oil per day from overseas, isn't it time to consider the thoughtful utilization of all our resources to promote America's economic growth and energy security?
MIKE MIKUS
Director
Consumer Energy Alliance Mid-Atlantic
Bridgeville
First Published September 21, 2012 12:00 am
