Energy Secretary Perry projects nation will be net energy exporter by 2020

At a summit hosted by the Consumer Energy Alliance this week, U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry promoted domestic energy production and infrastructure expansion, while noting the country has a real chance to be a net energy exporter in two years.

“We are already energy dominant now,” Perry said. “We’re seeing a 1-million-barrels-a-day increase from 2018 to 2019, and the third-largest oil field in the world is the Permian Basin, in West Texas,” Perry said. “It’s stunningly prolific because of technology and innovation. Its success is due to pipeline infrastructure.”

His message was bolstered by Michael Whatley, senior executive vice president of the Consumer Energy Alliance, who insisted that increased production and new technologies are leading to a partial energy revolution in the United States. He also said that it is helping Americans at all levels.

“The key is maintaining an all-of-the-above energy strategy, here and nationally, that urges the growth of all resources and the expansion of all energy infrastructure,” Whatley said. “Such a game plan will help lower energy costs for cash-strapped families and small businesses countrywide and provide stronger opportunities for manufacturers and businesses to create jobs for those who need it most.”

Such sentiments were echoed by other speakers at the conference, including state Sen. Frank Wagner (R-VA), Hampton Roads Chamber CEO and President Bryan Stephens, and Brett Vassey, CEO of the Virginia Manufacturing Association.

“We are doing great things, but we still need to grow our energy capacity to remain competitive,” Vassey said.