Energy Policy Must Keep Affordability First
Proposed diesel export restrictions could have unintended consequences for families, farmers, and businesses
HOUSTON – Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the leading energy and environmental advocate for families and businesses, today urged policymakers to carefully consider the potential consumer impacts of proposals to restrict U.S. diesel and refined fuel exports.
Americans are facing significantly higher diesel prices, increasing costs for farmers, truckers, businesses, and families. Addressing those costs should be a priority, but restrictions on U.S. fuel exports could have unintended consequences that put additional pressure on consumers.
From gasoline and diesel to jet fuel, U.S refineries produce the fuels that keep consumers and businesses moving. Limiting diesel exports may force some refineries to reduce overall production of fuels, potentially tightening supplies and increasing costs for gasoline and jet fuel.
“Families, farmers, truckers, airlines, and businesses are already feeling the impact of tight refinery margins caused by the closing down of several refineries in California over the past few years,” CEA President David Holt said. “Relief would be welcome, but any policy response should start with a simple question: Will it ultimately make energy more affordable and reliable for American consumers in both the short and long-term?”
Holt added, “Restricting exports may sound like a straightforward way to keep more fuel at home, but energy markets and refinery operations are interconnected. Policies that restrict markets and result in less fuel being produced, will ultimately mean tighter supplies and higher costs for consumers and families. We should focus on policies that increase supply, expand and simplify refinery operations, strengthen our energy infrastructure, and help ensure Americans have access to the affordable, reliable energy they need.”
CEA supports an all-of-the-above approach to energy policy that prioritizes affordability, reliability, and access to the energy resources families and businesses depend on every day.
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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the trusted voice advocating for affordable, reliable, and cleaner energy solutions that benefit all Americans. Representing families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers, CEA champions sensible, balanced policies that support economic growth and environmental resiliency; and ensures families and businesses are a vocal part of the nation’s energy dialogue. Every day, we work to inspire practical, responsible solutions that meet America’s energy needs while protecting the environment for generations to come.
Contact:
Jeff Ostermayer
(561) 310-5920
jostermayer@consumerenergyalliance.org