Common Ground Found in Natural Gas
Politics and Natural Gas
In the current political climate, finding common ground can seem like an impossible task. Differences are often highlighted more than shared values, especially during the heat of election season. However, not all issues need to be divisive or partisan. Natural gas is one such area, transcending political boundaries and providing economic growth, energy security, and environmental progress. By acknowledging the benefits of this energy source, it's possible to unite varying perspectives and work towards a stronger America.
The Case of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania is a prime example of the opportunities and partnerships created by embracing natural gas. The state produces nearly 20% of America's natural gas, demonstrating the economic, consumer, and environmental progress that can be achieved. Over the past two decades, since the first horizontal well tapped into the Marcellus, Pennsylvania's natural gas resources have attracted new opportunities and uplifted existing industries. This has reduced energy costs and emissions, and alleviated reliability concerns.
Economic and Environmental Impact
The unifying power of natural gas might be due to the 123,000 high-paying jobs it has created in Pennsylvania, the $40 billion in economic activity generated in a year, and the over $6 billion paid to landowners in royalties. Furthermore, natural gas has been responsible for the largest year-over-year decline in the state's power sector emissions, highlighting its role in a lower carbon future.
Political Consensus
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has stated that it's a false choice to say we have to choose between protecting our planet and protecting our jobs, asserting that we can have both. Pennsylvania State Senator Gene Yaw, who chairs the Senate's Environmental Resources & Energy Committee, has praised the state's natural gas sector for providing affordable, reliable energy, creating jobs, and generating economic opportunities. Pollsters at Axis Research have noted that over 68% of Republicans and Democrats in Pennsylvania support continued investment in natural gas, making it a rare bipartisan issue.
Community Benefits
When Pennsylvania's natural gas sector thrives, so do its people. The tax on natural gas development has generated over $2.7 billion, which has been distributed to communities in each county, regardless of industry activity. Philadelphia, for example, has received approximately $18 million for infrastructure, community development, and emergency preparedness since 2012, in addition to millions in annual home energy savings.
Looking Ahead
Southeastern Pennsylvania could potentially serve as an LNG export hub, providing the world with access to reliable, low-cost, and clean natural gas. The Appalachian Basin, being the largest and cleanest source of natural gas in the country, if not the world, positions us at the forefront of America's clean energy advantage. However, to fully leverage this asset, elected officials must address the regulatory hurdles, tax inequalities, and other challenges that hinder the expansion of natural gas development and usage.
Energy and National Security
Recent global events have shown that energy and national security are closely linked. It's crucial to develop a forward-thinking vision for America's energy future that leverages our natural gas abundance to ensure our nation's energy security, sustainability, and prosperity.
Bottom Line
Natural gas seems to be a unifying force in a time of political division, offering economic growth, energy security, and environmental progress. What are your thoughts on this? Share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.
