Page 17: of Offshore Engineer Magazine (May/Jun 2025)

16 18

WASHINGTON WATCH NOIA © sadagus/AdobeStock

RESTORING U.S. OFFSHORE

ENERGY DOMINANCE:

THE MOMENTUM IS REAL

By Erik Milito, President, National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) merica’s offshore energy future is at a turning est-emission barrels of oil in the world and generates bil- point. After years of political headwinds, we’re lions in federal revenue that supports infrastructure, con- fnally witnessing a decisive shift in Washing- servation, and coastal restoration. But over the past several

A ton that is embracing the United States’ po- years, federal leasing policy has failed to keep pace with our sition as a global offshore energy leader. The Trump ad- energy needs and global opportunities.

ministration’s early moves, combined with momentum in The current 2024–2029 Five-Year Leasing Program, f-

Congress, offer a path forward that prioritizes energy secu- nalized under the previous administration, includes only rity, economic growth, and technological innovation—all three offshore oil and gas lease sales—the lowest number while laying the groundwork for more effcient permitting in program history. This self-imposed scarcity undermines and expanded investment. a stable investment environment, stifes innovation, and

But this is only the beginning. What happens next— signals uncertainty to the domestic and global markets.

especially through budget reconciliation and follow-on Thankfully, the Trump administration took action to permitting reform—will determine whether we unlock the fx this failure early. Through executive and secretarial full potential of our offshore resources or continue ceding orders, it has prioritized energy production on federal ground to global competitors. lands and waters, directed agencies to resume oil and gas lease sales and develop a new leasing program, and streamline permitting.

Reclaiming the Ofshore Advantage

The Gulf of America has long been a powerhouse of The Trump administration has sent a strong message:

American energy production. It provides some of the low- the Gulf of America matters.

may/june 2025 OFFSHORE ENGINEER 17