Congress Urged to Approve Offshore Drilling Plan

The US Department of Interior Mineral Mining Services’ five year drilling plan has been commended by Atlanta based AGL Resources.

The plan allows states more control over offshore resources and provides for revenue sharing. East Coast natural gas prices are the highest in the US and among the highest in the world.

“Access to domestic supplies of natural gas must be part of any successful long-term, national energy policy, and will help stabilise supply and moderate prices for our customers,” John Somerhalder, AGL Resources’ chief executive officer, said in a statement.

Nations around the world have successfully and safely drilled in offshore locations for more than 35 years. New drilling technologies can provide enhanced environmental protection as they allow each drilling rig to access larger areas.

The Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade concluded that natural gas can be safely produced at least 50 miles offshore with additional protection for the Eastern Shore, and the General Assembly has passed legislation asking Congress to lift the ban twice.