What's Happening?
At the Energy Workforce & Technology Council's (EWTC) 2025 Business Optimization Conference in Houston, Texas, leaders emphasized the urgent need for permitting reform to meet the rising global power demand with U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG). Tim Tarpley, EWTC President, highlighted the challenges posed by increasing demand across various sectors and the necessity of natural gas-fired generation to fulfill this demand. He pointed out that the current permitting process, which can take over five years to build a gas pipeline, is a significant obstacle. The EWTC is advocating for reforms to streamline the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) reviews and accelerate approvals for critical infrastructure. Additionally, the council is addressing trade and tariff issues that increase costs for U.S. manufacturers.
Why It's Important?
The push for permitting reform is crucial for the U.S. energy sector to capitalize on the growing global demand for power, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia. The ability to efficiently expand LNG infrastructure is vital for maintaining the U.S.'s competitive edge in the global energy market. The proposed reforms could reduce costs and expedite the development of necessary infrastructure, benefiting both the industry and consumers. However, political gridlock and upcoming election-year dynamics pose challenges to advancing these reforms. The outcome of these efforts will significantly impact the U.S. energy industry's ability to meet future demands and maintain its leadership in the global market.
What's Next?
The EWTC has a limited window to push for permitting reform before the 2026 campaign pressures intensify. The council is also focusing on workforce stability, as retirements outpace new entrants in the oilfield services sector. Efforts to improve workforce retention and attraction are underway, including flexible scheduling and transparent succession planning. The EWTC's international chapters in the Middle East and Latin America are working to strengthen global partnerships, providing platforms for suppliers to connect with exploration and production operators. The success of these initiatives will depend on overcoming permitting delays, tariff burdens, and workforce challenges.
