Energizing Oregon
Mark Green
Posted August 20, 2016
Even in a big hydroelectric power-producing state like Oregon, petroleum-based fuels play an important energy role. Hydro accounted for 55.5 percent of the state’s net electricity generation in 2015 and supplied 34 percent of the energy Oregonians used in 2014 – the largest single energy source. Yet, combined fuels from oil and natural gas supplied 54.5 percent of the energy the state used. By itself, natural gas supplied 23 percent of the energy the state consumed.
Click on the thumbnail to see a two-page energy infographic for the Beaver State.
The fact is very green Oregon benefits from an all-of-the-above approach to energy. The state ranks 27th in natural gas production (the Mist field in northeastern Oregon is the only producing field in the Pacific Northwest) – which state residents doubtless are appreciating more and more because cleaner-burning natural gas is the main reason the U.S. leads the world in reducing energy-related carbon emissions.
Stay tuned: One day Oregon could become a strategic export portal for domestic liquefied natural gas (LNG) – strategic because of its proximity to important LNG markets in Asia.
Americans’ appreciation for the fact the U.S. leads the world in oil and natural gas production is reflected in polling showing nearly eight in 10 support increased production of domestic oil and gas. Policy choices factor heavily in making that happen. On Page 2 of the infographic, see a chart that illustrates how pro-development policy choices could increase energy output, add jobs, bolster the economy and benefit consumers. It also shows how regulatory constraints on energy development could produce negative impacts.
Energy is essential for virtually every aspect of our daily lives. It powers national, state and local economies, gets us to work and goes into products we rely on for health and comfort. Safe, responsible energy development here at home is linked to national security as well as Americans’ individual prosperity and liberty – in Oregon and all the 50 states of energy.
About The Author
Mark Green joined API after a career in newspaper journalism, including 16 years as national editorial writer for The Oklahoman in the paper’s Washington bureau. Previously, Mark was a reporter, copy editor and sports editor at an assortment of newspapers. He earned his journalism degree from the University of Oklahoma and master’s in journalism and public affairs from American University. He and his wife Pamela have two grown children and six grandchildren.