Opening Alaska’s coastal plain to oil, natural gas production could increase US energy security, American Petroleum Institute says
The American Petroleum Institute recently issued a statement in response to the Department of the Interior’s announcement that it would release a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the leasing program proposed for the 1002 Area (coastal plain) of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).
“The coastal plain is a small portion of ANWR that has been identified for oil and natural gas exploration and the potential for safe and environmentally responsible energy development in this area is incredibly large and a key part of a long-term vision for U.S. energy security,” API Director of Upstream and Industry Operations Erik Milito said. “Responsible access to the Arctic region is in our national security interest, with other nations like Russia, Canada, and Norway already actively exploring the area.”
A recent U.S. Energy Information Administration report found that natural gas and oil development in the coastal plain could strengthen U.S. energy security, API noted.
A 2005 review by the U.S. Geological Survey found that the 1002 Area contains an estimated 10.4 billion barrels of oil. At peak production, the 1002 Area could provide up to 1.45 million barrels of oil per day.
“Future development in this small portion of the coastal plain is supported by many of the North Slope tribal and village leadership, the Alaska State Legislature, and a majority of Alaskans,” Milito said. “There is wide recognition that, in addition to national energy security, safe and responsible natural gas and oil development helps grow the economy, and meet the energy needs of American consumers.”
Milito said that production from the coastal plain could start after 2031 at the earliest due to to the time it takes to acquire leases, explore and develop the infrastructure required for oil and natural gas production.
