API welcomes EPA action to promote energy infrastructure, American jobs

WASHINGTON, June 27, 2018 – API welcomed today’s action by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to increase certainty in the permitting process surrounding energy infrastructure projects – including pipelines – by seeking to clarify that Clean Water Act (CWA) dredge and fill permit application decisions may only be determined once an applicant has applied and the agency can thoroughly review.

“Today’s decision to promote certainty in the pipeline permitting process is great news for American consumers and American jobs across the country,” said API Senior Director of Federal Affairs Khary Cauthen. “Pipelines are critical to delivering the energy that Americans need and demand every day. With increased certainty in the pipeline permitting process, we will be better able to help ensure that there is the energy infrastructure in place to meet our nation’s growing energy needs while protecting the environment and communities.

“Private investment in our nation’s energy infrastructure – including pipelines – is a $1.3 trillion proposition that could support 1 million jobs per year through 2035. Today’s announcement is welcome news and we look forward to our continued work with the administration to ensure that American consumers, American workers and the environment can continue benefitting from America’s energy resources.”

API is the only national trade association representing all facets of the oil and natural gas industry, which supports 10.3 million U.S. jobs and nearly 8 percent of the U.S. economy. API’s nearly 620 members include large integrated companies, as well as exploration and production, refining, marketing, pipeline, and marine businesses, and service and supply firms. They provide most of the nation’s energy and are backed by a growing grassroots movement of more than 45 million Americans.

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