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This week I’m attending a Senate Resources Committee hearing in Kenai to review the exploration and production of oil & gas in Cook Inlet.

Natural gas is critical in providing power for Southcentral Alaska.  In recent years the region has faced declining production from Cook Inlet and a serious energy supply shortage.  In response, the legislature has taken decisive steps to encourage new production in the inlet.  Revising oil & gas tax credits to further exploration and creating incentives to bring jack-up rigs to the region have already yielded considerable results.  During the hearing we heard from producers and utilities about the opportunities and challenges facing the region.  Public policy plays an important role in fostering economic growth in Alaska, and many energy resources in this region have yet to be realized.

Studies suggest there are vast undiscovered hydrocarbon resources in Southcentral Alaska.  The U.S. Geologic Survey estimates Cook Inlet contains 19 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, 600 million barrels of oil, and 46 million barrels of natural gas liquids.  The inlet has been under-prospected for many years and state policy can help induce the exploration and production that will meet the region’s energy needs.

I enjoyed participating in the hearings and look forward to continue working with colleagues to find energy solutions for Alaskans.

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