OPINION: The future of energy is an all-of-the-above strategy: Louisiana cannot afford to lag behind.

By Will Hardy | State Director, Conservatives for Clean Energy Louisiana (CCE-LA)

American energy demand is growing at an alarming rate, due largely to the rapid acceptance of AI technology at scale (requiring a considerable amount of power). With the lack of both new transmission lines (due to a sluggish permitting system) and energy diversity needed to meet rising power demand, energy prices will likely continue to rise for the American ratepayer. If the U.S. is to keep energy prices affordable in this new world of AI-driven demand, every energy resource and technology must be utilized. Louisiana plays a key role in this pursuit. Louisiana’s background of energy dominance means we must pursue emerging energy avenues as well. Our role is critical in the global energy future.

Opportunities exist in avenues like clean hydrogen, geothermal, liquified natural gas, nuclear power, and more in our state. For Louisiana to continue being the energy production behemoth it has always been, an all-of-the-above strategy must be embraced. This includes energy-adjacent technologies like carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCS).

CCS is a safe technology that increases investment and job creation and makes the Bayou State globally competitive. CCS has been utilized at a smaller scale for decades by petrochemical companies with a large presence in Louisiana. The expanded and scaled use of the technology is an economic driver for Louisiana communities, as these companies seek to invest heavily in CCS in the state.

These technologies and more ought to be shaping Louisiana’s energy future. The need for power is greater than ever, yet the slow adoption of emerging energy routes could put Louisiana behind… an interesting outcome considering Louisiana has always been a globally recognized energy leader. The Bayou State has all the right ingredients to continue as the formidable energy behemoth it always has been. But our state must capitalize on the opportunities we have before us. Let’s redouble our efforts to find solutions and not lag behind as other states move forward on energy development.