“Louisiana is vital to the nation’s economy and competitiveness. Home to a significant portion of the nation’s energy infrastructure, Louisiana roads, pipelines, and transmission and distribution systems transport more than 30 percent of the nation’s oil and natural gas supplies through the state,” Harbert said. “As part of a comprehensive energy strategy, America must expand, modernize, and protect this critical infrastructure in Louisiana and across the United States to meet the realities of up to 30 percent more energy needed between now and 2030.”
Harbert highlighted that the offshore oil and gas industry in Louisiana contributes $70 billion to the state’s economy annually, providing nearly $13 billion in household earnings for more than 300,000 residents. Louisiana’s critical energy infrastructure includes Henry Hub interstate gas pipeline connection; two of the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves; the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port – a major U.S. oil import terminal; the St. James oil terminal, which serves as a key distribution point for ocean going oil tankers; and Port Fourchon, the major oil field services and supply port for offshore production.
The mission of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for 21st Century Energy is to unify policymakers, regulators, business leaders, and the American public behind a commonsense energy strategy to help keep America safe, strong, prosperous, and clean. Through policy development, education, and advocacy, the Institute is building support for meaningful action at the local, state, national, and international levels.
To read more about the U.S. Chamber’s Institute for 21st Century Energy, visit www.energyxxi.org.
The U.S. Chamber is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.