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Ohio Families & Businesses Will Pay Over $2.7 Billion More Each Year for Gasoline and Diesel if Line 5 Shuts Down, Consumer Group Warns

Columbus Ohio Downtown River

Consumer Energy Alliance Releases Report Highlighting the Economic Harm that a Line 5 Closure Will Have on Ohio’s Families, Businesses and Industries

COLUMBUS, OH – Shutting down the Line 5 pipeline, the reckless proposal pursued by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, would force families, businesses and industries in Ohio to pay more than $2.7 billion more for transportation fuel every year, according to an independent third-party analysis commissioned by Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA).

Weinstein, Clower and Associates examined the impacts that a Line 5 closure would have on the region and found that shutting down this critical infrastructure would have a devastating impact on the supply of transportation fuels in regional markets, and hurt petrochemical refiners that rely on the pipeline to safely and efficiently deliver feedstock. Such a supply shock would create significantly higher gasoline and diesel prices for Ohio families and businesses, who will spend at least $2.7 billion more every year on transportation fuels, or $13.6 billion more over five years.

The study also found that families and businesses across the Midwest will spend at least $29.2 billion more for gasoline and diesel over the following five years due to the resulting loss of production at area refineries.

The report dovetails with previous findings that closing Line 5 would cause at least $20.8 billion in economic losses to Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania.

“At a time when consumer prices are rising at their fastest pace in more than 40 years, and Americans are suffering from the highest gasoline prices in over seven years, choking the region’s fuel supply by closing Line 5 would be economically ruinous,” CEA Midwest Director Chris Ventura said. “Ohio’s families are already struggling to pay their bills, with many on fixed incomes or living below the poverty line having to choose between putting gas in their tank, buying groceries, or filling their prescriptions.”

Ventura added, “From an environmental perspective, the proposal is just as careless. Line 5 hasn’t leaked in the Straits during its 68-year history, and it is inarguably the safest, most reliable method to transport the fuel Ohio needs. Recklessly raising energy bills on Ohio’s families and businesses by disrupting their fuel supplies – notably oil and propane – while harming the economy and the environment is irresponsible, especially when solutions like the Line 5 Tunnel Project have been proposed.”

Concerned about how a Line 5 closure would hurt manufacturers in Ohio who depend on the pipeline for feedstock Ohio Manufacturers’ Association President Ryan Augsburger said, “The Buckeye State and its number one industry — manufacturing — have much riding on the high-profile energy battle initiated by Michigan’s leaders. Undoubtedly, closure of Line 5 would be an economic disaster for our region and the industries that depend on this vital resource. The OMA strongly supports the uninterrupted operation of the pipeline, especially at a time when Ohio businesses and families continue to experience soaring energy inflation.”

Commenting on the job loss that would result in Ohio from shutting down Line 5 United Steelworkers District 1 Director Donnie Blatt said, “The USW is committed to advocating for a safe, clean environment. But we believe that does not have to come at the cost of the jobs of our members, and our communities. Families and businesses across the Midwest should not be asked to bear the brunt of what could amount to a $29.2 billion increase in gasoline and diesel costs over the next five years when a viable solution exists. The Great Lakes Tunnel Project will safeguard jobs, the economy, and the environment, at no cost to the taxpayer. We urge our members, communities, and legislators to support the construction of the tunnel, and the continued operation of the existing Line 5 pipeline until it has been completed.”

Ohio Chemistry and Technology Council President Jenn Klein added, “Ohio’s chemistry industry is the 3rd largest in the nation. If the line 5 pipeline is shut down, we could see skyrocketing costs for transportation fuels as well as petrochemical feedstocks that we use to produce thousands of commercial and consumer goods. The potential job loss and inflation that would result from this closure will be devastating.”

Responding to how choking the Midwest of fuel supply will hurt the trucking industry and raise inflation even further, Ohio Trucking Association President and CEO Thomas A. Balzer said, “In today’s extremely stressed supply chain, any changes to the inputs will have a devastating impact on the outputs. Increases in fuel costs are already at historic levels, driving up the costs even further will be directly felt by everyday Americans. Shutting down Line 5 will not only be felt by the trucking industry but will continue to increase the inflation consumers are already experiencing.”

Ohio Chamber of Commerce President Steve Stivers added, “The United States cannot afford to relinquish its hard-earned spot as one of the world’s largest producers of oil and natural gas, but this is exactly what is at risk with actions such as revoking energy infrastructure like Line 5. Domestic energy production and refinement is more important now than ever in the wake of the Russian invasion on Ukraine. The Ohio Chamber of Commerce will continue to support affordable, domestic, reliable energy that businesses across Ohio and the country rely on, while ensuring it is transported in the most environmentally responsible way possible.”

To view the full report, click here.

To view findings specific to Ohio, click here.

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855
bhull@consumerenergyalliance.org

Michigan Families & Businesses Will Pay Over $2 Billion More Each Year for Gasoline and Diesel if Line 5 Shuts Down, Consumer Group Warns

Detroit Skyline Aerial View With Lighthouse, Marina, and River

Consumer Energy Alliance Releases Report Highlighting the Economic Harm that a Line 5 Closure Will Have on Michigan’s Families, Businesses and Industries

LANSING, MI – Shutting down the Line 5 pipeline, the reckless proposal pursued by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, would force families, businesses and industries in Michigan to pay more than $2.2 billion more for transportation fuel every year, according to an independent third-party analysis commissioned by Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA).

Weinstein, Clower and Associates examined the impacts that a Line 5 closure would have on the region and found that shutting down this critical infrastructure would have a devastating impact on the supply of transportation fuels in regional markets, and hurt petrochemical refiners that rely on the pipeline to safely and efficiently deliver feedstock. Such a supply shock would create significantly higher gasoline and diesel prices for Michigan families and businesses, who will spend at least $2.2 billion more every year on transportation fuels, or $11.1 billion more over five years.

The study also found that families and businesses across the Midwest will spend at least $29.2 billion more for gasoline and diesel over the following five years due to the resulting loss of production at area refineries.

The report dovetails with previous findings that closing Line 5 would cause at least $20.8 billion in economic losses to Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania.

“At a time when consumer prices are rising at their fastest pace in more than 40 years, and Americans are suffering from the highest gasoline prices in over seven years, choking the region’s fuel supply by closing Line 5 would be economically ruinous,” CEA Midwest Director Chris Ventura said. “Michigan’s families are already struggling to pay their bills, with many on fixed incomes or living below the poverty line having to choose between putting gas in their tank, buying groceries, or filling their prescriptions.”

Ventura added, “From an environmental perspective, the proposal is just as careless. Line 5 hasn’t leaked in the Straits during its 68-year history, and it is inarguably the safest, most reliable method to transport the fuel Michigan needs. Recklessly raising energy bills on Michigan’s families and businesses by disrupting their fuel supplies – notably oil and propane – while harming the economy and the environment is irresponsible, especially when solutions like the Line 5 Tunnel Project have been proposed.”

Commenting on the job loss that would result in Michigan from shutting down Line 5 United Steelworkers District 1 Director Donnie Blatt said, “The USW is committed to advocating for a safe, clean environment. But we believe that does not have to come at the cost of the jobs of our members, and our communities. Families and businesses across the Midwest should not be asked to bear the brunt of what could amount to a $29.2 billion increase in gasoline and diesel costs over the next five years when a viable solution exists. The Great Lakes Tunnel Project will safeguard jobs, the economy, and the environment, at no cost to the taxpayer. We urge our members, communities, and legislators to support the construction of the tunnel, and the continued operation of the existing Line 5 pipeline until it has been completed.”

Noting how shutting down Line 5 will unnecessarily burden Michigan’s small business and economy Small Business Association of Michigan President and CEO Brian Calley said, “As small businesses work to overcome inflation and staffing challenges, the last thing they need is to be burdened with additional costs that a Line 5 shutdown would bring. This report once again shows how reckless the politically motivated nonsense around shutting down Line 5 would be for our economy, our small businesses and all of our residents.”

David Rhoa, President of the Marana Group added, “Shutting down Line 5 will be a gut-punch to small business owners across our state at a time when they are struggling to recover from two years of pandemic restrictions. Fuel costs for my company’s fleet of vehicles have increased by more than 50% in the last year. A Line 5 shutdown would add to the significant inflationary pressure small businesses like mine are already under, further increasing costs during an already difficult economy.”

Responding to how disruptions in Michigan’s fuel supply will be felt by Michigan’s manufacturers, residents and businesses, Operating Engineers 324 Business Manager Douglas Stockwell said, “Carrying out the vital work of rebuilding Michigan’s infrastructure requires skilled labor, heavy equipment, and the materials and fuel to make them run. Line 5 is essential to that fuel supply. Any disruption to that supply or its costs will be felt by the residents and businesses that are relying on this work, and by the jobs it supports. Line 5 is necessary to rebuild Michigan, and to the skilled labor accomplishing it.”

Noting how Line 5 is critical in meeting Michigan’s energy needs and protecting our environment, Mark High of the Canada – United States Business Association said, “This is a time to encourage and enhance our cross-border cooperation on trade, not erect barriers to it. Rail and truck transportation by themselves are not enough to meet the energy needs of American and Canadian consumers. Modernizing our energy infrastructure, like the proposed Line 5 Tunnel Project, will both preserve our economies and protect our Great Lakes environment.”

John Dulmes, Executive Director of the Michigan Chemistry Council added, “Line 5 is a critical part of our regional energy infrastructure, and it remains the safest and most effective way of transporting energy products essential to our economy. Given the incredibly fragile state of our supply chains and workforce, there are just no feasible alternatives, and so we encourage policymakers to work to make a safe pipeline even safer.”

To view the full report, click here.

To view findings specific to Michigan, click here.

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855
bhull@consumerenergyalliance.org

Indiana Families & Businesses Will Pay Over $270 Million More Each Year for Gasoline and Diesel if Line 5 Shuts Down, Consumer Group Warns

Father and Daughter Sitting in the Kitchen with Bills

Consumer Energy Alliance Releases Report Highlighting the Economic Harm that a Line 5 Closure Will Have on Indiana’s Families, Businesses and Industries

INDIANAPOLIS, IN – Shutting down the Line 5 pipeline, the reckless proposal pursued by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, would force families, businesses and industries in Indiana to pay more than $272 million more for transportation fuel every year, according to an independent third-party analysis commissioned by Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA).

Weinstein, Clower and Associates examined the impacts that a Line 5 closure would have on the region and found that shutting down this critical infrastructure would have a devastating impact on the supply of transportation fuels in regional markets, and hurt petrochemical refiners that rely on the pipeline to safely and efficiently deliver feedstock. Such a supply shock would create significantly higher gasoline and diesel prices for Indiana families and businesses, who will spend at least $272 million more every year on transportation fuels, or $1.3 billion more over five years.

The study also found that families and businesses across the Midwest will spend at least $29.2 billion more for gasoline and diesel over the following five years due to the resulting loss of production at area refineries.

The report dovetails with previous findings that closing Line 5 would cause at least $20.8 billion in economic losses to Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania.

“At a time when consumer prices are rising at their fastest pace in more than 40 years, and Americans are suffering from the highest gasoline prices in over seven years, choking the region’s fuel supply by closing Line 5 would be economically ruinous,” CEA Midwest Director Chris Ventura said. “Indiana’s families are already struggling to pay their bills, with many on fixed incomes or living below the poverty line having to choose between putting gas in their tank, buying groceries, or filling their prescriptions.”

Ventura added, “From an environmental perspective, the proposal is just as careless. Line 5 hasn’t leaked in the Straits during its 68-year history, and it is inarguably the safest, most reliable method to transport the fuel Indiana needs. Recklessly raising energy bills on Indiana’s families and businesses by disrupting their fuel supplies – notably oil and propane – while harming the economy and the environment is irresponsible, especially when solutions like the Line 5 Tunnel Project have been proposed.”

Concerned for how the economic impacts of a Line 5 closure will harm Indiana’s businesses and individuals Indiana Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Environmental and Energy Policy and Federal Relations Greg Ellis said: “The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is concerned with the potential impacts on businesses and citizens of the state of Indiana by shutting down Line 5 in Michigan. With inflation at a 40-year high and energy costs rising, increasing fuel prices by billions of dollars across our region – upwards of $270 million per year in Indiana alone –  greatly harms our economic competitiveness.”

To view the full report, click here.

To view findings specific to Indiana, click here.

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855
bhull@consumerenergyalliance.org

Pennsylvania Families & Businesses Will Pay Over $630 Million More Each Year for Gasoline and Diesel if Line 5 Shuts Down, Consumer Group Warns

Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Consumer Energy Alliance Releases Report Highlighting the Economic Harm that a Line 5 Closure Will Have on Pennsylvania’s Families, Businesses and Industries

HARRISBURG, PA – Shutting down the Line 5 pipeline, the reckless proposal pursued by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, would force families, businesses and industries in Pennsylvania to pay more than $630 million more for transportation fuel every year, according to an independent third-party analysis commissioned by Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA).

Weinstein, Clower and Associates examined the impacts that a Line 5 closure would have on the region and found that shutting down this critical infrastructure would have a devastating impact on the supply of transportation fuels in regional markets, and hurt petrochemical refiners that rely on the pipeline to safely and efficiently deliver feedstock. Such a supply shock would create significantly higher gasoline and diesel prices for Pennsylvania families and businesses, who will spend at least $630 million more every year on transportation fuels, or $3.1 billion more over five years.

The study also found that families and businesses across the Midwest will spend at least $29.2 billion more for gasoline and diesel over the following five years due to the resulting loss of production at area refineries.

The report dovetails with previous findings that closing Line 5 would cause at least $20.8 billion in economic losses to Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania.

“At a time when consumer prices are rising at their fastest pace in more than 40 years, and Americans are suffering from the highest gasoline prices in over seven years, choking the region’s fuel supply by closing Line 5 would be economically ruinous,” CEA Midwest Director Chris Ventura said. “Pennsylvania’s families are already struggling to pay their bills, with many on fixed incomes or living below the poverty line having to choose between putting gas in their tank, buying groceries, or filling their prescriptions.”

Ventura added, “From an environmental perspective, the proposal is just as careless. Line 5 hasn’t leaked in the Straits during its 68-year history, and it is inarguably the safest, most reliable method to transport the fuel Pennsylvania needs. Recklessly raising energy bills on Pennsylvania’s families and businesses by disrupting their fuel supplies – notably oil and propane – while harming the economy and the environment is irresponsible, especially when solutions like the Line 5 Tunnel Project have been proposed.”

Commenting on how closing Line 5 would harm Pennsylvania’s critical fuel supply needed for refineries and commercial travel President & CEO of the Pennsylvania Manufacturers’ Association David N. Taylor said, “America’s energy infrastructure is the circulatory system of our economy. Even though Line 5 runs through the Straits of Mackinac, the petroleum that it delivers via Ontario feeds our refineries in northwestern Pennsylvania and fuels the airport in Pittsburgh. The governor of Michigan has no right to violate America’s formal trade agreements and treaties with Canada or to interfere with commerce between the states in our country. Line 5 needs to stay open – PERIOD.”

“Michigan may be hundreds of miles away from Pennsylvania, but any decision to shut down critical pipeline infrastructure there could have a resounding and punishing effect on fuel prices and consumers’ pocketbooks here,” said Kurt Knaus, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Energy Infrastructure Alliance, a statewide coalition that advocates for the safe, responsible development of pipelines and related energy infrastructure projects in Pennsylvania. “These pipelines really are the energy superhighways that our states need to deliver the fuels that power every facet of our modern economy. Shutting down Line 5, especially during these uncertain times, would be disastrous,” Knaus added.

To view the full report, click here.

To view findings specific to Pennsylvania, click here.

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855
bhull@consumerenergyalliance.org

Consumer Group Applauds Florida House Passage of Bipartisan Solar Energy Legislation

Solar energy farm

TALLAHASSEE – The Florida House of Representatives today passed Florida House Bill 741, which addresses solar energy expansion and helps modernize net metering incentives, sponsored by Florida Representatives Lawrence McClure and Alex Andrade. Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) – Florida Executive Director and Vice President of State Affairs Kevin Doyle issued the following statement:

“We commend Florida Representatives McClure and Andrade for their leadership and sponsorship of HB 741 regarding expanded use of solar energy and net metering. As a strong advocate for solar energy, we are pleased to support this bipartisan legislation and efforts to ensure that our utility and grid infrastructure is maintained and supported,” Doyle said.

“With the development of solar power growing and installation costs coming down, universal solar farms continue to come online in Florida, which gives all Floridians the benefits of solar energy – regardless of their financial status. The time is right to evaluate the current net metering programs to ensure they are keeping pace with market realities, and giving solar access to every Floridian.”

“As strong supporters of solar and initiatives to make our utility and grid infrastructure the most efficient and modern, we look forward to the Florida Senate considering and approving this important legislation this session, and thank Representatives McClure and Andrade for their leadership.”

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855
bhull@consumerenergyalliance.org

U.S. Energy Excluded from State of the Union’s ‘Make It In America’ Message

Oil derricks in daytime

WASHINGTON – David Holt, President of Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the leading energy and environmental advocate for families and businesses, issued the following statement in response to President Biden’s State of the Union Address.

“We wonder why the president’s rallying cry of ‘Make it in America’ excludes the American oil and gas industry, since his stated goal is to reduce dependence on foreign supply chains. The president’s address missed the opportunity to make a course correction and loosen the stranglehold put on the domestic energy industry through over-regulation and poor policies. Americans desperately need a realistic response to high energy prices and the highest inflation in 40 years, and they did not hear that in the State of the Union.”

“American families and small businesses instead have been asked to make more economic sacrifices, while the Administration is using every tool in its toolbox to hamper domestic energy production, as it has since day one. Instead of meeting our own growing energy needs, we are sending $67 million a day to Russia for imports of oil produced with little regard for the environment and asking foreign nations to supply energy we have here in America.”

“Americans should not be fooled into thinking that a Strategic Petroleum Reserve release of what’s roughly a day of U.S. oil consumption will make any difference when they fill up their gas tanks.”

“We are more than 1.5 million barrels a day below the peak production of 2019, when oil prices averaged a mere $57 a barrel. Getting our energy industry back in action is the fastest way to lower prices and take the financial pressure off Americans, not copying the failed energy policies which left the U.K. and Germany vulnerable to extreme high prices and inadequate energy – before Putin invaded Ukraine.”

“Americans should demand that our leaders open every domestic opportunity for energy, be it for oil and gas in the Gulf of Mexico, natural gas pipelines or expanded wind, hydro, solar and nuclear power across the country. The Biden Administration must not repeat Europe’s mistakes, nor avoid the easiest, most logical solution to our energy crisis – drilling more here and banning dirtier Russian oil. To do otherwise only strengthens the Putins of the world while hurting ordinary Americans.”

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855

Record $4.37 Billion Offshore Wind Lease Sale a Landmark for America’s Energy Future

Large white windmills in the sea with a sailboat

WASHINGTON – Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the leading energy and environmental advocate for families and businesses, on Friday released the following statement after the Department of Interior announced the record results of the New York Bight offshore wind lease sale. The $4.37 billion in bids from six companies is the highest offshore energy lease sale in U.S. history.

“The $4.37 billion in bids the New York Bight lease sale generated is far more than the highest-grossing offshore energy lease sale in history. It is the put-your money-where-your-mouth-is dawn of America’s newest and hottest emerging market,” CEA Federal Affairs Adviser Michael Zehr said.

“These bids are the seed money for a transformative wave of industrial activity that will put American steel, concrete and technology in the water, while creating thousands of new jobs and tens of billions of dollars in new business opportunities across the country.”

“Offshore wind has the potential to reinvigorate coastal communities, create new manufacturing and technology businesses in all 50 states and above all, provide a new way to meet America’s increasing energy demands well into the future.”

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855
bhull@consumerenergyalliance.org

Consumer Group Launches “Open the Gulf” Campaign to Fight High Energy Prices, Inflation

Two offshore oil rigs during sunset

WASHINGTON – Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the leading energy and environmental advocate for families and businesses, on Thursday launched the “Open the Gulf” campaign to help counter surging prices at the pump and rampant inflation by focusing attention on the current ban on new federal oil and gas leases in the Gulf of Mexico and other policies that restrict access to U.S. energy.

“With American families struggling with the highest prices at the pump in seven years, inflation at a 40-year high and conflict in Ukraine sending oil prices over $100 a barrel, the solution for a cleaner environment and lower energy prices is in America’s possession,” CEA President David Holt said.

“The social cost of doing nothing about America’s energy crisis will be inflicting more economic harm on American families, parents and small businesses, especially those who can least afford to spend another cent amid higher prices for everything,” Holt said.

“President Biden is clearly not using ‘every tool in the toolbox’ to lower prices, which he could do today by opening the Gulf instead of blaming Russia. Americans should not be asked to sacrifice over the Ukraine conflict when we have a domestic energy ban of our own making, and lifting it would mean lower prices for us and less money for Putin.”

“Development opportunities in the Gulf of Mexico are tangled up in red tape and intentional delays by the Administration, while the legally required federal offshore leasing plan for the next five years is nowhere near started.”

“The Biden Administration’s new freeze on all oil and gas leasing because of a court decision that essentially upholds all current standards is proof we are not using every tool we have. The greatest tool in America’s energy toolbox is maximizing our status as the world’s leading environmentally responsible oil and gas producer to ease the pain.”

“The pervasive sense that the Gulf is closed to new leases – whether by bureaucratic slowdowns or political maneuvers – is hurting America’s energy security, reliability of supply and environment by ensuring that global energy demand is met by oil and natural gas from more carbon-intensive producing nations.”

“Our net-zero future will require solutions that use oil and gas, and the Gulf is the least carbon-intensive offshore source in the world. We must embrace it and our stringent environmental and safety protocols to maintain our world-leading emissions reductions.”

The campaign aims to mobilize CEA’s diverse membership representing every aspect of the U.S. economy to educate the public, elected leaders and stakeholders on the value the Gulf provides. The Gulf is responsible for 15% of U.S. crude and 5% of natural gas production; supports nearly 350,000 jobs; generates over $28 billion of GDP and $5 billion in government revenue.

“We must open the Gulf to new leases for wind, oil and gas to give Americans relief from high prices, to ensure we maintain our environmental progress with all forms of energy and secure our future energy supply. We should not ever have to rely on OPEC+ nations.”

“It’s time to throw out the fiction that we can get rid of oil and gas today. It’s long past time to stop ceding our national advantages to foreign adversaries – and then blaming them for high prices – while saddling families, parents, farmers and small businesses with costly, inflation-fueling policies. It’s time to open the Gulf.”

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About Consumer Energy Alliance
Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA) is the leading voice for sensible energy and environmental policies for consumers, bringing together families, farmers, small businesses, distributors, producers, and manufacturers to support America’s environmentally sustainable energy future. With more than 550,000 members nationwide, we are committed to leading the nation’s dialogue around energy, its critical role in the economy, and how it supports the vital supply chains for the families and businesses that depend on them. CEA works daily to encourage communities across the nation to seek sensible, realistic, and environmentally responsible solutions to meet our nation’s energy needs.

Contact:
Bryson Hull
(202) 657-2855
bhull@consumerenergyalliance.org

To Curb Climate Change, Mixing Traditional Fuels with Renewables Can Help

Traffic in the City

It’s been all but accepted now that our nation’s energy mix will evolve from relying completely on traditional sources of fuel to incorporating more renewables and cleaner energy sources. What’s little known, and maybe even surprising, is that we can accelerate that shift to a lower-carbon future by pairing solar and wind with natural gas and even oil. This immediate solution helps states not only achieve parity but meet net-zero goals quicker.

It’s already well underway with much of the activity focusing on using solar energy to run natural gas compressors for utilities, which work like engines or boosters, pushing natural gas to where it must go to heat homes and businesses.

  • Last October in New Jersey, Enbridge began integrating solar power with Texas Eastern Transmission’s natural gas pipeline operations. Solar energy powers the compressor station behind the meter, enabling the pipeline to supply natural gas to homes and businesses.
  • The same company also began a similar project in November 2020 in Tyrone Township, Pennsylvania to help power the compressor units that keep gas flowing along its cross-continent Texas Eastern Transmission pipeline.
  • In New Mexico, natural gas operator EOG Resources has been using solar arrays since November 2020 to operate compressors throughout the southern part of the state that normally would rely on natural gas.
  • Williams Companies, another large pipeline operator, is planning several utility-scale solar projects to power its natural gas transmission and processing operations.
  • Occidental Petroleum has a 16-megawatt solar farm in the Permian Basin that is the first such solar project to power oil and gas operations directly in Texas.

Solar-powered air compressors are also being used by energy producers to drill for oil and natural gas in remote locations.

The objective, of course, is to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHGs) – the primary emissions that contribute to climate change. The two solar facilities operated by Enbridge are estimated to reduce such pollution by nearly 131,700 metric tons over their 25-year lives. That’s equal to taking over nearly 28,500 cars off the road. EOG Resources estimates its New Mexico facility will cut carbon dioxide emissions by 5,000 metric tons annually. On our way to net-zero and other low-carbon objectives, these pairings are significant.

For utilities, the natural gas and solar mix offer a persuasive example of how different energy sources can work together to ensure electric customers across the country have access to affordable, reliable, on-demand power that individuals, families, and businesses require to meet their needs. Besides reducing pollution, the arrangement helps save on operating costs which is not only good for the company but for consumers too.

To be sure, it will take decades for renewables and battery storage technology to replace traditional fuels completely – especially the amount cities and to fuel and electrify cities. The share of traditional fuels in the energy mix globally was 80.2% in 2019 and was basically unchanged through 2021. While oil demand decreased, both natural gas and coal increased. This percentage is practically unchanged from the 80.3% seen in 2009. Most of the growth of these fuels occurred in developing non-OECD economies.

Energy Mix
Source: BP Statistical Review of World Energy

Wind and solar comprised 11.2% of the energy mix in 2019 versus 8.7% in 2009, according to a report from REN21, a think tank that focuses on renewable energy policy.

Still, to make progress on curbing greenhouse gas emissions to calm climate change, any mix of traditional fuels and renewables seems a welcome development. While some mistakenly might scoff at the continued buildout and use of infrastructure like pipelines, they will be necessary now and into the future, with natural gas predicted to be the dominant energy source in 2050 – even increasing in use by 50% according to some estimates as it replaces coal on the global market.

Having access to various pieces of energy infrastructure, especially working in tandem, not only helps to ensure we have the energy we need now but in the future. We have a vast array of pipelines in service that can start boosting this cleaner transition today and ensure we can hit those net-zero emissions targets tomorrow. Consider it a down payment to reliably meet the shared future we all want.

CEA’s Top 5 Favorite Energy Stories This Week – February 18

Energy affordability is continuing to be a critical issue as American consumers feel pain at the pump and are receiving higher energy bills amid winter storms.

On Tuesday, President Biden said that his Administration is “prepared to deploy all the tools and authority at our disposal to provide relief at the gas pump.” The remarks came amid rising concerns that gas prices will soar even higher if Russia chooses to invade Ukraine.

However, energy prices surged well before Russian-Ukraine tensions rose this year. A recent analysis shared that Biden’s energy policies cost U.S. households more than $1,000 in 2021 alone.

Meanwhile, U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm told state regulators this week that the Department of Energy is ready to work hand in hand with them in building a clean energy future by updating America’s infrastructure, as the Department seeks to deploy funds made available by the Investment and Jobs Act passed last November.

Looking for more energy news? Check out our top five favorite stories from the week below!

Biomass Wood Pellets

5Top of class in sustainable energy

The University of Iowa was recognized as one of the top institutions in the country in using sustainable energy by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The university succeeded in reverse engineering boilers to run on biomass fuels, as well as experimenting with other coal alternatives. The Daily Iowan reports that the university’s coal usage is down 87 percent from what it was before the biomass program began and said the university is on track to be zero coal by 2023, two years ahead of its 2025 target date.

The high bridge at the Pennsylvania Turnpike.

4Public wireless EV charging comes to Detroit

Electreon, a wireless and in-road wireless electric vehicle charging technology company, will deploy its first public wireless EV charging road system in Michigan. Electreon’s charging infrastructure can wireless charge EVs while they are in motion and stationary. Brighter Side of News reports that the company said it is the first in the world to be successfully demonstrated on public roads.

Tiny house

3Homes as climate-change havens

Earthships are homes made out of recycled materials like tires, cans, and bottles, which are off the grid and climate resilient. Now there are now “earthships” in nearly every state, costing anywhere from $200 to $400 per square foot to build. CNBC reports that they use about one-sixth the power of a regular house and are made from at least 40% recycled materials.

Quality engineer examining solar panels in factory

2Solar panels sans sunlight

The idea of solar panels that don’t need sunlight might sound crazy, but it’s not completely impossible. A student at Mapua University in the Philippines created solar panels using luminescent particles from fruit and vegetable waste. By using particles like this, he created a solar film capable of capturing ultraviolet rays that convert into visible light and are then used to generate energy. BGR reports that when scaled up, the panels could enable buildings to completely run off their own electricity.

Electric Car Charging On Street

1Rest, relax and recharge

Ever dreamed of taking a cross-country road trip without spending hundreds of dollars on gas? It’s now easier than ever to do that in an electric vehicle. A huge amount of accommodations, including private homes, around the world are installing EV chargers for guests to use. Matador Network reports that 850,000 of Airbnb’s host properties around the world now have EV chargers for guests.

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