America's Energy Grid: Why We Need to Speed Up Construction
A Natural Gas and Oil Powerhouse
Ohio is home to the vast Utica and Marcellus shale formations, making it the biggest oil producer east of the Mississippi River. Natural gas production has surged, now 13 times higher than a decade ago.
The Energy Grid Struggle
Despite its resources, Ohio's energy grid is struggling to meet demand. This issue is not isolated; across America, electricity demand is projected to increase by 35 to 50% by 2040, driven largely by the rise of AI data centers.
The Permitting Bottleneck
Building new power sources is hampered by red tape and endless reviews. Outdated laws like the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Clean Water Act (CWA) are often used to block development.
Case Studies
- Mountain Valley Pipeline: Construction began in 2018 but took nearly six years and an act of Congress to complete.
- Great Lakes Tunnel Project: Ready to go but still waiting for permits. This project is crucial for supplying regional refineries and propane needs.
The Cost of Delay
Infrastructure delays lead to tighter supply, higher costs, and potential energy shortages. Ohio has the resources and workforce to advance U.S. energy dominance, but permitting reform is critical.
The Path Forward
Congress must act on permitting reform to:
- Set and enforce deadlines
- Stop lawsuits and start building
- Enforce targeted reviews and swift decisions
Ohio is ready to build, but without reform, Ohioans could face energy shortages and higher costs. Durable reforms are needed to ensure affordable, reliable, and secure energy for decades to come.
