As we shift our focus from the holiday season to planning for 2017, energy is likely to remain a central topic.
In Washington, we will see significant changes related to energy policy. The incoming Trump administration has already signaled it will stimulate domestic production of energy and streamline permitting for vital infrastructure. The effects of that are sure to trickle down to the state and local level, as well, including to eastern North Carolina.
Even as we ended 2016, energy was still making headlines. Just within the last two weeks - as one of President Obama’s last moves in office - future consideration of energy exploration in Arctic waters and off the northeastern Atlantic coast south to Virginia was banned.
In contrast, days before Obama’s decision, President-elect Donald Trump tapped ExxonMobil CEO Rex Tillerson as the planned nominee for Secretary of State.
In the coming years, the president-elect and members of Congress will play a critical role in shaping America’s 21st century energy renaissance, determining whether our nation will cement its position as a global energy leader.
The energy policy conversation in 2017 should focus on an all-of-the-above approach grounded in market-based principles. Continued private sector investment in renewable technologies backed by clean-burning natural gas should be a priority. Emphasis should also be placed on new technological advancements in traditional energy sources like carbon capture for coal and economically sustainable nuclear. Finally, it is important to acknowledge the vital role energy infrastructure projects, like the Atlantic Coast Pipeline, play in our daily lives and economy.
This conversation going forward is about American competitiveness, international influence, national security, energy security and long-term economic strength and prosperity here at home.
What we do know is the need for energy will continue to grow in 2017 and beyond. Due to population growth and emerging economies, energy demand is anticipated to grow 25 percent between 2015 and 2040. Furthermore, oil and natural gas will continue to play a large role in meeting that growing demand.
Based on a recent study conducted to forecast energy’s outlook:
Vantaca’s Balancing Act
Audrey Elsberry
-
May 17, 2024
|
|
Channel, UNC Law School Aid Wilmington Small Businesses
Audrey Elsberry
-
May 16, 2024
|
|
Developers Mark Opening Of $78M Apartment Project At Riverlights
Staff Reports
-
May 17, 2024
|
|
Two Apartment Projects Pitched For Kerr Avenue
Emma Dill
-
May 17, 2024
|
|
As Hurricane Season Heats Up, How Do Builders, Laws Prep Homes For Storms?
Emma Dill
-
May 17, 2024
|
The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina has about 13,000 members; approximately 11,000 live in the greater New Hanover County area....
Ocean City Beach was established in 1949 and became the first community in the state where Black people could purchase oceanfront property....
“We want to swing big, and we have a vision of building a really massive company that is the industry standard for software in our space."...
The 2024 WilmingtonBiz: Book on Business is an annual publication showcasing the Wilmington region as a center of business.