Energizing Nebraska
Mark Green
Posted September 7, 2016
Nebraska is a state with significant energy potential. While the state's conventional oil and natural gas production has been declining, there’s considerable promise seen in the vast Niobrara shale play, an emerging producer in Colorado and Wyoming, which stretches south into the western part of Nebraska.
Click on the thumbnail to open a two-page energy infographic for the Cornhusker State.
Meanwhile, Nebraska produces other energies, including nuclear and biofuels. As the state nickname implies, Nebraska’s status as the nation’s No. 3 corn producer makes it a leader in biofuels output. It ranks No. 2 behind Iowa in corn-ethanol production, most of which is delivered to other states.
Nebraska energy use is led by coal and natural gas, according to U.S. Energy Information Administration data. Coal accounted for more than 60 percent of the state’s net generation for electric power in 2015. Nuclear supplied another 26 percent.
The U.S. is an all-of-the-above energy nation, illustrated in Nebraska and most of the 50 states. America leads the world in oil and natural gas production, yet all energy sources contribute to our country’s energy security. Pro-energy development policies offer the best chance to boost our economy, grow jobs and increase our security. The benefits of this path can be seen on Page 2 of the infographic, contrasted with the negative impacts of a policy path characterized by regulatory constraints.
Energy is essential for virtually every aspect of our daily lives. It powers national, state and local economies, gets us to work and goes into products we rely on for health and comfort. Safe, responsible energy development here at home is linked to national security as well as Americans’ individual prosperity and liberty – in Nebraska and all the 50 states of energy.
About The Author
Mark Green joined API after a career in newspaper journalism, including 16 years as national editorial writer for The Oklahoman in the paper’s Washington bureau. Previously, Mark was a reporter, copy editor and sports editor at an assortment of newspapers. He earned his journalism degree from the University of Oklahoma and master’s in journalism and public affairs from American University. He and his wife Pamela have two grown children and six grandchildren.