The Energy Impacts with David Blackmon

Hosted by David Blackmon

Business NewsInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

217

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Discussions are a two-way street. This podcast is for all sides to have an open forum and share their opinions on fossil, renewable, nuclear, and all things energy.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 16, 202647 min

Freedom Fuel: Energy, Security & Prosperity - Frm Representative Jason Isaac

Welcome to Rate Payers First, where we cut through the noise on America's energy crisis. Join host David Blackmon, Stu Turley, and Frm Representative Jason Isaac as we expose the policies destroying your wallet, threatening national security, and crippling American energy independence. From windfall profit taxes to grid failures to Chinese equipment in our power lines—we're asking the questions Washington won't answer. Because affordable, reliable energy isn't a luxury. It's the foundation of prosperity, security, and freedom. This podcast is going out on both the Energy News Beat, and Energy Impacts Podcast and we highly recommend following Jason Isaac on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonaisaac/ , and also his website: https://americanenergyinstitute.com/ Also check out David Blackmon's Substack https://blackmon.substack.com/ , and The Energy News Beat Substack https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/ 1. Oil & Gas Pricing & Market Dynamics The hosts debate President Trump's comments about oil companies "price gouging" on gasoline. They explain the "rocket and feather effect"—how prices spike quickly when supply concerns arise but take longer to fall. They note current gas prices are actually lower than during the Biden administration and lower than historical averages, despite public frustration. 2. Windfall Profit Tax Concerns Discussion of proposed Democratic legislation (Ro Khanna and Bernie Sanders) to impose windfall profit taxes on oil companies. The guests argue this would ultimately harm consumers by raising costs and reducing investment, citing Texas as an example of how lower business taxes attract companies and economic growth. 3. Data Centers & Critical Digital Infrastructure A major focus on the AI race against China and the importance of data centers. They contrast Governor Hokel's ban on data centers in New York with Governor Abbott's measured approach in Texas—a temporary halt to review environmental impacts. Key points include data centers' economic benefits (jobs, tax revenue, $1 billion to Texas education last year) and the need to protect water resources through responsible practices like desalination. 4. Energy Grid Reliability & Market Reform Extensive discussion of Texas's grid challenges, including: Poor market design that doesn't reward reliability Over-reliance on intermittent wind and solar (53 GW added vs. only 3 GW of natural gas in 5 years) Rate payers bearing billions in costs to keep thermal plants on standby Launch of "Rate Payers First" coalition to advocate for consumer protection 5. Supply Chain & National Security Issues Concerns about Chinese equipment in the U.S. electrical grid, including: Chinese-made solar components and battery storage systems Remote communication devices pinging back to China The incident at Camp Lejeune where a battery storage system was remotely restarted after being shut down Need to bring manufacturing back to the U.S. and allied nations 6. Wind & Solar Infrastructure Problems Environmental and practical concerns about renewable energy installations: Wind turbine graveyards in Sweetwater, Texas with disposal challenges Oil leaking from turbine bases contaminating farmland Massive concrete foundations making land unsuitable for future farming Potential future "superfund sites" from damaged installations 7. LNG & Energy Exports Celebration of U.S. LNG production and exports as "freedom fuel" helping allies globally. Discussion of how American LNG is more affordable than alternatives and helps lift people out of poverty worldwide. Mention of major investments like Amazon's 7-gigawatt natural gas facility. 8. Jones Act & Fuel Supply The importance of suspending the Jones Act (Merchant Marine Act of 1920) to allow cheaper fuel transport to California, Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico. Discussion of how the antiquated law drives up energy costs in these regions and harms industries like pharmaceuticals in Puerto Rico. 9. California's Energy Crisis & National Security California's closure of refineries (down to 7 from 40) creates vulnerability for military bases and national security. The state's opposition to increased oil production threatens fuel supply for strategic military installations. 10. Natural Gas Turbine Shortage A critical supply chain issue: 5-year waiting list for gas turbines, with old power plants being dismantled to salvage parts, limiting new natural gas generation capacity despite demand. The overarching theme is that affordable, reliable American energy is essential for economic prosperity, national security, and global stability—and that misguided policies (windfall taxes, renewable subsidies, Jones Act restrictions) undermine these goals.

August 11, 202650 min

When Pipelines Replace Chokepoints: Energy's New Geopolitical Map

When geopolitical chaos erupts—Iranian tankers in the dark fleet, Houthi attacks in the Red Sea, Russian refineries under fire—oil prices should skyrocket. Yet here we are in August 2024 with WTI crude at just $83 a barrel, and the market hasn't collapsed. Why? Because the U.S. is producing nearly 14 million barrels a day, pipelines are bypassing chokepoints, and refineries are running flat out. But there's a catch. In this episode of the Energy Impact Podcast, Trisha Curtis—CEO of PetroNode, Chief Economist of the American Energy Institute, and Senior Consultant at the U.S. Department of Energy—joins David Blackmon and Stu Turley to break down the real story behind oil markets. They debate whether prices reflect reality, expose the refining capacity crisis that's keeping gas prices high, and challenge the media narratives that get it wrong. From China's strategic stockpiling to Iran's fading leverage to why the oil industry desperately needs better PR, this conversation separates market hype from hard data—and reveals what's really at stake for American energy security. Connect with Trisha Curtis at https://www.linkedin.com/in/trisha-curtis-petronerds/ or @petronerds633 on YouTube This is also going out on David Blackmon's podcast, Energy Impacts. Connect with David on his LinkedIn here https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-blackmon-2325189/ 1. U.S. Oil Production & Global Market Dominance The hosts emphasize that the U.S. produces nearly 14 million barrels per day, making it the world's largest oil producer. This production level hasn't received adequate attention in media coverage, despite its significant geopolitical and economic implications. The Permian Basin, particularly in Texas and New Mexico, is driving record output growth. 2. Oil Market Resilience During Geopolitical Disruptions Despite major disruptions—including attacks on the Strait of Hormuz, Red Sea blockades by Houthis, and the Ukraine-Russia conflict—the oil market has adapted remarkably well. The hosts credit market forces, refinery efficiency, and alternative supply routes (like the East-West Pipeline) for preventing catastrophic price spikes that many predicted. 3. Current Oil Pricing ($83/barrel WTI) The discussion explores why oil prices have remained relatively moderate despite geopolitical chaos. They debate whether prices reflect reality, with consideration for tanker insurance costs, physical delivery premiums, and crack spreads (refinery profit margins). 4. Refining Capacity Crisis A critical issue: the U.S. has 128 operating refineries with an average age of 75-80 years, and only one new refinery (Brownsville) is coming online by 2027. California is losing refining capacity (6 of 7 refineries slated to close), which will have serious economic consequences. Refining capacity is the key bottleneck limiting gasoline and diesel price relief. 5. Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) & Exports The hosts discuss the SPR release strategy and defend continued crude oil and refined product exports as essential to global energy security. They emphasize that allowing exports supports the market and benefits U.S. energy interests. 6. China's Energy Strategy & Stockpiling China has significantly reduced oil imports (down 5 million barrels/day) and is drawing on massive strategic reserves. The hosts suggest China is using this period as a "test run" for potential future blockades (like closing the Strait of Malacca during a Taiwan conflict). 7. Middle East Geopolitical Complexity The discussion covers Iran's leverage (tanker fleet, strait control), OPEC's fragmentation (UAE's departure), Iraq's alignment with Iran, and the role of alternative pipelines reducing dependence on the Strait of Hormuz. 8. Turkey, Pakistan & Regional Mediation The hosts highlight emerging geopolitical tensions involving Turkey and Pakistan as mediators, with concerns about extremism funding and the potential for regional escalation. 9. Industry Communication & Leadership The hosts criticize the oil and gas industry for poor public relations and not taking credit for market stability and affordable energy. They call for better industry leadership and advocacy. This podcast presents a nuanced view of global energy markets, emphasizing market adaptation, U.S. strategic advantages, and the critical importance of refining infrastructure and policy decisions around exports and reserves. Check out the Energy News Beat Substack at https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/ Check out David Blackmon's Substack at https://blackmon.substack.com/

May 6, 202639 min

Tom Pyle, President of the Institute for Energy Fueling America: 250 Years of Energy Innovation

1. "Fueling America: 250 Years of Energy Innovation" Tom Hall introduces the Institute for Energy Research's special project celebrating America's 250th anniversary by highlighting the nation's leadership in energy innovation. Key points include: The U.S. has historically led in energy innovation (Drake well, Henry Ford, Wright brothers, first LNG terminal) Energy innovation has been a driver of progress, democracy, freedom, and prosperity The project focuses on prominent figures and innovators in the energy sector throughout American history 2. Property Rights and American Energy Exceptionalism A critical distinction is made about why the U.S. is uniquely positioned as an energy producer: American property owners own subsurface mineral rights, unlike most countries where governments own them This uniquely American system of property rights, combined with the rule of law and common law system, has been fundamental to energy progress This explains why the U.S. leads in shale production while other countries (Bulgaria, England, Germany) don't 3. Iran Crisis and Geopolitical Strategy Extensive discussion of the current conflict with Iran, including: A 47-year struggle with a radical regime that finances terrorism through oil revenues The blockade strategy as a way to starve the government of revenue without ground war The importance of preventing Iran from controlling the Strait of Hormuz The need for regime change (civilian government replacing the mullahs) for lasting success How U.S. energy strength (shale revolution, LNG exports) enables this policy 4. Global Energy Market Realignment The conversation explores how the geopolitical situation is reshaping global energy: OPEC is effectively dead as a controlling force The U.S. is now the "swing producer" Expected shifts in oil trade flows and relationships UAE's withdrawal from OPEC signals the organization's decline Potential strategic alliance between Saudi Arabia and Israel 5. Trump Administration's Energy Policy Impact Discussion of how Trump's policies are reshaping energy regulation: Repeal of Chevron deference and the EPA's 2009 endangerment finding These repeals dismantle the legal foundations of Obama and Biden energy restrictions Trump is described as "American energy unleashed" Broader policy shifts including border control and NATO burden-sharing 6. Venezuela's Energy Recovery Analysis of Venezuela's potential return as an oil producer: Venezuela previously produced 3+ million barrels per day before Maduro/Chavez ExxonMobil is now exploring re-entry into the market Recovery would supply Gulf refineries with heavy crude This would increase U.S. exports and reshape oil markets Benefits would extend to Venezuelan people through economic improvement 7. California's Energy Crisis Discussion of California's self-inflicted energy problems: The state has transitioned from a major oil producer to being dependent on Middle East imports One-party rule has created policies that drove out oil companies (Chevron, Valero) Climate policies have merely exported emissions rather than reducing them globally Trump suspended the Jones Act to help alleviate the crisis The state serves as a cautionary tale of poor energy policy 8. Broader Geopolitical Realignment Themes about shifting international relationships: The U.S. is becoming more naturally aligned with countries like India than France European countries are moving toward authoritarian socialism and proving unreliable allies The Trump administration is reshuffling long-standing international arrangements (NATO, embassy moves, etc.) Focus on Western Hemisphere security (the "Don Roe doctrine") This podcast presents a comprehensive view of how energy policy, geopolitics, and innovation intersect to shape global affairs. Follow David on his Substack https://blackmon.substack.com/

April 29, 202629 min

Dan Doyal, Author, Of Roughnecks and Riches, on the the Energy Impacts Podcast

This will be a great episode of the Energy Impacts Podcast with David Blackmon and his guest, Dan Doyal, author and President of Relliance Well Services. Buckle up as David and Dan will be covering the hard truth in the oil and gas markets. Live on LinkedIn and YouTube. 1. Dan Doyle's Background in Oil & Gas Dan shares his journey from college through various roles in the industry—starting with his father's well-drilling venture in the late 1970s, moving to Texas, experiencing the price crash of the 1980s, a brief detour into filmmaking, and eventually founding his own fracking company. This sets the context for his book "Of Roughnecks and Riches." 2. Media Misrepresentation of the Oil & Gas Industry A significant portion of the conversation focuses on how the industry has been negatively portrayed in popular media—from shows like Dallas to documentaries like "Gasland" (funded by the Park Foundation). They discuss Josh Fox's discredited documentary that falsely portrayed methane issues and how this shaped public perception. They contrast this with the more balanced portrayal in the TV show "Yellowstone." 3. Environmental Policy & Political Ideology The hosts discuss how hard-left environmental policies have created barriers to energy production, particularly in New York State, which has banned fracking despite the economic benefits seen in neighboring Pennsylvania. They critique how these policies disproportionately affect the poor and middle class through higher energy costs, while also preventing economic development. 4. New York vs. Wyoming Regulatory Environments A key comparison emerges between New York's ideologically-driven restrictions on energy production versus Wyoming's practical, business-friendly regulatory approach. They discuss how New York's ban on Marcellus shale extraction has created economic disparity compared to Pennsylvania, while Wyoming actively supports responsible oil and gas development. 5. The Marcellus Pipeline Debate They discuss the challenges of building a 150-mile pipeline to transport Marcellus gas to New England, which would reduce dependence on imported LNG from Russia and Algeria. New York's resistance to this project exemplifies the broader policy conflicts. 6. Financial Stress in the Oil Business Dan elaborates on the extreme financial volatility in oil and gas—dealing with dramatic price fluctuations, lease expiration pressures, and the stress of maintaining financing. He shares personal stories about the emotional and family toll of operating in such an uncertain industry. 7. Aubrey McClendon & Industry Dynamics They discuss the legendary wildcatter Aubrey McClendon, his aggressive leasing strategy during the Eagle Ford boom, and how gas price declines ultimately contributed to his downfall despite his vast acreage holdings. 8. Book Publishing Challenges Dan discusses the modern book publishing industry—the volume-based approach, the need for authors to actively promote their own work, and how the business has changed significantly. They also discuss the shift toward audiobooks as a primary consumption method. Check out the book on Amazon https://a.co/d/03oXx4IJ Connect with Dan on X @DanDoyleOil Check out the Energy Absurdities Substack at https://blackmon.substack.com/

April 15, 20261 hr 2 min

California Running on Empty - A National Security Issue of Biblical Proportions about to happen.

California is running on fumes, and the Federalization of Sable Offshore will only save part of the oil and gas industry. Will the Trump Administration step in and save California from itself? You won't want to miss this episode. This ain’t your Cats and Dogs living with each other, this is a full-blown apocalypse about to happen. This is a follow-up podcast to the one I had with Mike Ariza, and this time, David Blackmon and Professor Mike Mische are here to discuss the potential 7 Executive Orders that President Trump must enact to literally save the country. This is an eye-opening discussion from Professor Mische and Mike Ariza, with real boots-on-the-ground information. 1. California’s Energy Crisis & Supply Shortages The discussion centers on a critical fuel shortage affecting California, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. This is driven by the shutdown of major refineries in the state, creating concerns about price spikes, supply disruptions, and impacts on transportation, agriculture, and military operations. 2. Proposed Executive Orders & Defense Production Act Experts have drafted seven executive orders that could be invoked under the Defense Production Act to address the crisis. These orders aim to: Increase domestic oil and gas production Reopen and support refineries Override California’s regulatory authority for faster response The discussion suggests these would likely withstand legal challenges 3. National Security Implications The conversation emphasizes broader security concerns, noting that California has historically been a major fuel supplier for the U.S. military and economy. The loss of refining capacity and increasing reliance on imports pose serious risks, especially in potential conflicts or global supply chain disruptions. 4. Politics & Ideology in Energy Policy The podcast discussion suggests California’s government has been unwilling or unable to address the crisis due to ideological priorities—particularly climate change policies—which have been prioritized over ensuring reliable and affordable energy supplies. 5. Urgency & Consequences of Inaction Experts emphasize the critical need for immediate intervention, warning of severe consequences, including fuel shortages, price spikes, economic disruption, and national security risks if action isn’t taken. Connect with Professor Mische on his LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-a-mische-987b30a/ Connect with Mike Ariza on X https://x.com/MikeAriza4531 Important Story Links: California will be a national security risk for the entire country! California Gasoline Supply Outlook: A Disaster in the Making https://californiaglobe.com/fr/california-gasoline-supply-outlook-a-disaster-in-the-making/ California’s Oil and Gas Crisis: From Military Threat to Mass Starvation https://californiaglobe.com/fr/from-military-threat-to-mass-starvation/ EXCLUSIVE: Executive Orders for President Trump: Ensuring that US has Necessary Fuels from California to Provide US National Security https://californiaglobe.com/fr/executive-orders-for-president-trump-ensuring-that-us-has-necessary-fuels-from-california-to-provide-us-national-security/ Check out my Substack: https://blackmon.substack.com/

March 25, 202630 min

Did Iran Gift Kharg to the US?

David Blackmon stops by the Energy News Beat Stand Up - and we have way too much fun covering the top 10 Energy Stories. Today’s show has a series of huge stories, and David Blackmon and I have way too much fun covering the wild energy stories going on around the world. 1. Potential U.S. Acquisition of Karg Island The transcript discusses President Trump’s comments about Iran potentially handing the U.S. a “very big present” related to oil and gas. This appears to reference Karg Island, which is critical to Iran’s economy as it handles nearly 90% of Iran’s crude oil exports. The geopolitical implications of U.S. control over this strategic asset are explored. President Donald Trump dropped a bombshell yesterday in the White House Oval Office: Iran just handed the United States a “very big present” worth a tremendous amount of money. It wasn’t nuclear-related, he stressed. It was “oil-and-gas-related” and tied directly to the flow through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump called it a “significant prize” that proves America is “dealing with the right people” in Tehran — and that Iran “wants to make a deal… very badly.” The timing could not be more explosive. The Strait of Hormuz has been largely shuttered since the U.S.-Israeli campaign began on February 28, sending global oil prices soaring and choking off roughly 20% of the world’s traded crude. Yet Trump’s cryptic “gift” comment has energy markets buzzing with speculation: Did Washington just secure de facto control — or at least a major concession — over Iran’s crown jewel, Kharg Island? Why Kharg Island Changes Everything Kharg Island, a tiny coral outcrop 20 miles off Iran’s coast, handles nearly 90% of Iran’s crude exports — about 1.5–1.7 million barrels per day before the war. U.S. forces already struck military targets there earlier this month, but left the oil infrastructure largely intact. Trump has talked for decades about seizing it. Now, with Marines from the 31st MEU and additional amphibious assets en route, the island sits at the center of every war-gaming scenario. 2. Global Refinery Attacks and Disruptions There’s extensive coverage of refinery attacks occurring worldwide, affecting fuel supply and production capacity. The discussion includes a country-by-country breakdown of impacts in major oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Australia, highlighting how these disruptions ripple through global energy markets. 3. Shifting Oil Price Narratives The transcript examines how market expectations have fundamentally changed—from predictions of an oil glut and lower prices to forecasts of sustained higher prices. Analysis from major financial institutions like Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan is referenced to support these shifting outlooks. 4. Global Fertilizer and Agriculture Crisis The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz is discussed as a trigger for LNG supply disruptions, which would severely impact fertilizer production. Combined with Russia’s halt on ammonium nitrate exports, this threatens global food supply chains. 5. California’s Energy Vulnerabilities The transcript covers Chevron’s warnings about a potential fuel crisis in California, driven by the Iran conflict and the state’s dependence on imported fuels. Legal and regulatory challenges around refinery closures and offshore oil production are also discussed. 6. Additional Energy Concerns Brief mentions of refinery explosions (Valero Port Arthur) and emerging cybersecurity risks related to electric vehicle batteries. 1. Iranian War May Have an Off Ramp – Did The US Just Get Kharg Island? 2. Refineries Under Attack Globally 3. On Oil Prices, Ther Narrative Shifts to ‘Higher for Longer-David Blackmon –Forbes 4. Global Fertilizer Crisis Deepens: Strait of Hormuz Closure, Diesel Shortages, and LNG Disruptions Threaten Agriculture and Food Security 5. Iran Gas Flow to Turkey Said to Stop After South Pars Strike 6. Chevron to Buy Oil from Sable Offshore for Californians 7. Chevron Warns California Risks Fuel Crisis Unless Iran War Eases 8. Valero Port Arthur Refinery Explosion Shuts Down 435,000 b/d Refinery 9. America’s superpower is natural gas. 10. Security experts concerned on potential harm of EV batteries A shout-out to Steve Reese and the Reese Energy Consulting group for sponsoring the Podcast https://reeseenergyconsulting.com/. A shout-out to our New Sponsor, Data2 - We will be running an AI Centered Series and have lots of data rolling out!. https://www.data2.ai/resources/the-decision-lag-report

March 19, 202627 min

Secretary Scott Bessent is Restructuring the Oil and Gas Market

What a wild day on the Energy News Beat Stand Up. We have a special guest, David Blackmon, Forbes, Daily Caller, and Substack Author, and we have a blast. Key points: “Secretary Scott Bessent: President Trump is talking about, and to be clear, he has focused on Karg Island since 1988, before the Shaw fell, that the U.S. Should be focused on that. He is laser focused on it. As I said, there was a bombing campaign last week. The military assets on Karg island were destroyed. And the other thing I can tell you, if you’re an oil worker, you don’t want to work there. So all the oil workers there are being coerced to stay there. And we will see what happens with whether that eventually becomes a U.S. Asset.” - If the US takes control of Kharg Island, the Venezuelan-style controls will be placed on Iran, and this will help bring peace to the Middle East. 1. U.S. Energy Policy & Oil Price Stabilization The transcript covers Energy Secretary Granholm's efforts to manage oil prices through various policy tools, including sanctions enforcement, strategic energy reserves, and regulatory waivers on Russian and Iranian oil imports. 2. Middle East Energy Infrastructure Conflicts A significant focus is on military actions affecting energy infrastructure: Iran's South Pars Gas Field: Discussion of drone attacks by U.S. and Israeli forces targeting Iran's critical gas production facility Qatar's Pearl GTL Complex: Qatar's retaliatory strike on this LNG export facility, leading to force majeure declarations on LNG contracts 3. Global LNG Supply Disruptions The disruption to Qatar's liquefied natural gas exports is presented as a major concern for global energy markets, with the U.S. unable to quickly fill the supply gap in the short term. 4. State-Level Energy Transitions Hawaii's LNG Initiative: Efforts to transition away from fuel oil for power generation by importing LNG from Japan California Offshore Production: Discussion of restarting offshore oil production and the challenges posed by refinery closures 5. Domestic Oil Production Coverage of new oil and gas lease bids in Alaska's National Petroleum Reserve as a strategy to increase domestic oil production capacity. 6. Global Energy Market Dynamics Overarching concerns about supply shortages, price volatility, and the geopolitical challenges of replacing disrupted Middle Eastern energy supplies. 1. Secretary Scott Bessent has levers he can still pull to keep oil prices stable for a few weeks – Key Points from his Interview on Fox 2. South Pars Gas Field Strike: US-Israeli Drones Hit Iran’s Energy Lifeline – Production Hit, Markets Spike, and Tehran Targets Gulf Facilities in Retaliation 3. QatarEnergy’s Pearl GTL Complex Hit in Iranian Strike: Fires Rage at Ras Laffan – Critical Air Separation Units Likely Destroyed, Multi-Year Outage Expected 4. QatarEnergy Declares Force Majeure on LNG Contracts to Italy, Belgium, South Korea, and China: Shockwaves for Global Markets and a Major Boost for U.S. LNG Producers 5. Hawaii’s Gas Bid Advances on Japan Plan for Power Plant, Imports – It’s about time 6. National Petroleum Reserve–Alaska Has New Bids Opened 7. Black gold gushes into California as offshore bill kicks into gear following Trump executive order – But what good will it do? 8. Gasoline and Diesel Prices Are Going Up — What Are Trump’s Options to Lower Prices? Check out The Energy News Beat Substack: https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/ Check out David Blackmon on https://blackmon.substack.com/ If you are looking for a data center spot, give them a call. A shout-out to our sponsor, Reese Energy Consulting: https://reeseenergyconsulting.com/

March 18, 202626 min

Texas Gets A Refinery - Energy Security Starts at Home - Energy Dominance is displayed through your exports

This is a fun discussion with John Calce, Founder and Chairman of Element Fuels and America First Refining. This podcast is hosted by Stu Turley, Energy News Beat Host, and David Blackmon is the host of the Energy Impacts Podcast. Don't kid yourself, with the geopolitical issues around the world right now, this story is HUGE. A new refinery in the United States was built to refine the light, sweet crude oil from the Permian Basin. This is a gigantic win for Energy Security. As the title says, "Texas Gets A Refinery - Energy Security Starts at Home - Energy Dominance is displayed through your exports." John hit it out of the park while talking about how much planning and export capacity are being planned. Thank you, John, for your efforts, hard work, and getting this across the finish line. We will be reporting on this all along the way to help keep the excitement up. 1. America First Refining's Brownsville Refinery Project The central focus is John Kelsey's development of a major new oil refinery in Brownsville, Texas. Key aspects include: Background: Kelsey's extensive experience in upstream oil and gas, particularly during the shale oil boom The Problem: A critical mismatch between the light shale oil produced in the Permian Basin and existing U.S. refining infrastructure The Solution: Building a new refinery specifically designed to process light shale oil Timeline: A challenging 7-year permitting and approval process Partnership: Collaboration with Indian conglomerate Reliance for financing and operations Future Plans: Potential expansions into ammonia and fertilizer production 2. U.S. Energy Infrastructure & Market Dynamics The discussion places the refinery project within the broader energy landscape: Declining refining capacity in the U.S., particularly on the West Coast The paradox of exporting light shale oil from Texas while importing refined products back into California The role of policy and government support in energy infrastructure development 3. Economic & Regional Development Impact The project's implications for the Brownsville/Rio Grande Valley region: Job creation and economic growth opportunities Workforce development through partnerships with local universities and technical colleges Infrastructure and logistics challenges related to port expansion and regional growth Check out the American First Refining Company site: https://americafirstrefining.com/ John Calce's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-calce-28577014b/ Check out The Energy News Beat Substack: https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/ Check out David Blackmon on https://blackmon.substack.com/

March 17, 202654 min

Doomberg on the Global Oil and Gas Markets Update

Doomberg stops by the Energy Impacts and Energy News Beat podcasts to talk about the Global Oil and Gas Markets Update. Hosted by David Blackmon and Stu Turley, they have a rich history of having way too much fun talking about the energy, oil, and gas markets. 1. Geopolitical Tensions & Iran-US Conflict The transcript extensively covers the tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and the broader Iran-US conflict, examining how these tensions could disrupt global oil and gas supplies and reshape international relations. 2. Global Energy Markets & Supply Disruption A significant focus is placed on the potential impact of the conflict on energy markets, including: Risk of oil and gas supply disruptions Potential market fragmentation and regional energy markets Development of alternative energy infrastructure to bypass the Strait of Hormuz 3. International Power Dynamics The discussion explores the growing influence of China and Russia in the Middle East, their support for Iran, and how the conflict could shift global geopolitical power structures. 4. Media, Propaganda & Information The transcript addresses challenges in reporting on the conflict, including: The role of media narratives and propaganda Difficulty in separating fact from misinformation How information shapes public understanding 5. Energy Transition & Infrastructure Commentary on how the crisis might affect the transition to renewable energy, with perspectives that the conflict could actually accelerate investment in traditional energy infrastructure rather than renewables. 6. Policy & Strategic Decision-Making Analysis of strategies and decisions by key players, including the US government, Trump administration, and energy industry figures. Check out The Energy News Beat Substack: https://theenergynewsbeat.substack.com/ Check out Doomberg at https://newsletter.doomberg.com/ Check out David Blackmon on https://blackmon.substack.com/

March 11, 202649 min

Navigating the Energy Crisis Insights from the US Oil and Gas Association President

Tim Stewart stops by the Energy News Beat and Energy Impacts Podcasts David Blackmon kicks off this joint podcast with Tim Stewart, President of the US Oil & Gas Association, and we have a wild discussion. 1. Oil and Gas Industry Volatility The speakers examine the current unstable state of the oil and gas sector, focusing on fluctuating oil prices and their impact on companies and workers. They note how the industry is adapting differently than it did during the 1970s oil crisis. 2. Middle East Geopolitical Tensions A significant portion of the discussion centers on regional instability, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, attacks on oil infrastructure, and the U.S. response. Iran’s involvement and international sanctions are also key points of discussion. 3. California’s Energy Crisis The speakers address specific challenges in California’s energy sector, including refinery closures, companies relocating out of state, and how state energy policies are affecting the broader national energy landscape. " So To my point is that from the national energy policy perspective, it wouldn't surprise me over the next six months if the energy department and department chairs start to become involved in California energy policy. It's going to make federalism a really interesting argument because it's a counterpoint, but it's got to be done. " Tim Stewart, President, US Oil & Gas Association 4. Government and Policy Involvement There’s substantial discussion about the federal government’s role in addressing energy challenges, potential federal intervention in state policies, and the relationship between the administration and Congress on energy matters. 5. U.S. Energy Dominance and Geopolitical Strategy The speakers explore how current events are reshaping global energy markets, potential shifts in international trading relationships, and America’s strategic positioning based on its energy resources and influence. 6. Industry Perception and Policy Challenges The discussion includes the oil and gas industry’s efforts to engage with policymakers, changing Congressional dynamics around energy policy, and the need for improved public understanding of the industry’s role and challenges. 01:41 Tim Stewart discusses the "Goldilocks zone" for oil prices 21:01 Tim predicts federal intervention in California energy policy 30:32 Cool Energy things 32:18 New trading blocs based on Energy policies 35:30 Tim Tim Stewart makes a strategic point about competing with Lloyd's of London Check out my Substack: https://blackmon.substack.com/