Our region’s shale industry welcomes President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden back to Western Pennsylvania, home to the Marcellus Shale, our nation’s largest and most productive formation. As President Obama has stated, “America is closer to energy independence than we’ve been in decades” — and thanks to responsible shale development, we’re leading the way here in the commonwealth toward this critical achievement.
President Obama has underscored the urgency of revitalizing our nation’s manufacturing base, especially in regions like ours where this sector — and the communities that it supports — have struggled for far too long. Our abundant natural gas resources are playing an important role in growing manufacturing jobs and bringing back home facilities that left the United States years ago in search of more affordable energy. As we know, our region’s workforce is second-to-none. Now — driven by tightly regulated shale development — a brighter, more promising future is within reach. Consumers, struggling with sluggish employment opportunities, are benefiting, too.
“We produce more natural gas than anyone — and nearly everyone’s energy bill is lower because of it,” the president has stated. He’s absolutely right, and as the Obama administration has made clear, safe shale production “has contributed in large measure to a reduction in CO2 emissions,” which are now at a 20-year low. At the same time, shale is generating huge amounts of impact fees and tax revenues for local economies across Pennsylvania.
We’re pleased that the president and vice president are in the commonwealth again. We are encouraged by their efforts and support to safely produce and expand the use of American natural gas, which is boosting our economy — especially our manufacturing base — protecting our environment and strengthening our national security.
Dave Spigelmyer
President
Marcellus Shale Coalition
North Fayette
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