By: Tommy Faucheux, president of the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association
Louisiana has established itself as a global leader and forward-thinking energy source, thanks to our strong workforce and infrastructure, our proximity to offshore energy resources, and ongoing investments in innovative technology like Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS). With today’s pro-energy leadership at both the state and federal level, as well as the strong support from the oil and natural gas industry, Louisiana’s CCS investments will continue to play an intricate role as we enter the next phase of America-first energy dominance.
CCS is complimentary to oil and natural gas, not its competitor. If you’re pro-energy, pro-Louisiana and pro-oil and natural gas, then you should support CCS too.
The industry’s interest in low-carbon energy production remains strong, and Louisiana’s energy companies are among the top investors in CCS technology. The state has received over $20 billion in private investment for CCS projects, creating thousands of jobs and positioning Louisiana as a global hub for this essential technology.
Last year, regulators granted Louisiana primacy over class VI wells to expedite the permit process. This decision not only ensures safe and effective CCS activities, but it also safeguards and enhances CCS investment projects throughout the state. Major energy companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell and Air Products are already making significant strides in the class VI permit process, which demonstrates their long-term commitment to advancing CCS projects in Louisiana.
This journey to America-first energy dominance began during President Trump’s first term. Under his new administration, the industry’s efforts have been reignited and Louisiana energy – and American energy – have never been better positioned to win. By embracing energy innovation like CCS in Louisiana, the industry can continue to deliver on the promise to expand American-made energy, securing both state and national energy interests while contributing to a cleaner and more prosperous future.