The case for increasing production offshore California is relatively straightforward:
- The oil is there and production could be increased relatively quickly.
- Because of existing infrastructure and advances in extended reach drilling technology, additional offshore facility needs would be minimal.
- The safety and environmental record, while not perfect, has been exceptional. (Opponents and supporters of California offshore production should fully agree on one point: We must never forget the 1969 blowout, and must challenge operating practices that make these type of incidents possible.)
- An effective regulatory regime is in place.
- Both the State and Federal governments need the revenue.
- Importing 50+% of our petroleum is detrimental to our economy and has significant national security implications.
- 25 years of offshore leasing moratoria demonstrated that you don’t reduce domestic consumption by restricting domestic production.
- Because of common infrastructure and support service needs, offshore oil and gas operations are complementary to (and may accelerate) wind and hydrokinetic energy development.
