The American Petroleum Institute has welcomed the Department of the Interior's decision to issue permits for seismic surveys in the Atlantic, but warned limitations not based in science might prevent some companies from seeking permits and performing surveys.
"Offshore energy exploration and production in the Atlantic could bring new jobs and higher revenues to states and local communities, while adding to our country鶹ýӳs capabilities as an energy superpower,鶹ýӳ said API Upstream Director Erik Milito. 鶹ýӳNow that the decision to issue permits has been made, we urge the administration to move quickly so that surveying operations can begin next spring.
"We remain concerned by the lack of scientific support for certain requirements the administration wants to impose on seismic surveys in the Atlantic. Operators already take great care to protect wildlife, and the best science and decades of experience prove that there is no danger to marine mammal populations.
鶹ýӳRestrictions that have no scientific basis can easily discourage exploration, private investment and job creation. Regulators should rely only on sound science when setting permit requirements.鶹ýӳ
API represents all segments of America鶹ýӳs oil and natural gas industry. Its more than 600 members produce, process, and distribute most of the nation鶹ýӳs energy. The industry also supports 9.8 million US jobs and 8% of the US economy.
Adapted from press release by