Overview

Energy serves as the lifeblood of the American economy. Along with demand for traditional resources such as petroleum, coal and natural gas, alternative energy sources are playing an increasing role in meeting U.S. energy needs.

According to 2030 energy forecast, the U.S. Energy Information Administration, (EIA) predicts the U.S. will get 86 percent of its energy from fossil fuels in 2030, roughly the same as today. However, by 2030, real prices for oil and natural gas are projected to be higher than today and EIA expects that alternatives to oil – coal-to-liquids, gas-to-liquids and biofuels (ethanol and biodiesel produced from energy crops) – will play a greater role meeting national energy needs. Nuclear power is also expected to play a larger part in U.S. energy consumption along with accelerated energy efficiency measures. Above all, any new energy resources must be supported by complementary transmission and distribution networks.

Gubernatorial leadership continues to pioneer innovative measures designed to support our citizens with affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible energy. State energy issues also intersect a number of issues of importance to governors, including: reducing dependence on imported oil, enhancing economic development and job creation and reducing air pollution and greenhouse gases.

Focus of Center Activities

The Center is actively monitoring and evaluating energy challenges and policy responses across the states, disseminating information to accelerate the adoption of the most effective policy tools and best practices. Center staff is available to provide Governors and their policy advisors with targeted research and analysis on issues relating to the nation's electricity, natural gas, petroleum, coal, nuclear, renewable, and alternative energy markets.

In addition to tailored assistance to the state leadership, the Center also convenes policymakers with experts from industry, academia, and non-governmental organizations to examine specific topics of shared concern among the states. The recent volatility of energy prices and the impact of these prices on a state's economy and security only exacerbate the need to develop traditional and new domestic resources of energy.