Source: Star Local Media
The 2024 Forum highlighted Texas’ leadership in energy production, innovation, and global energy security, with insights from Governor Greg Abbott and former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.
The 2024 Lone Star Energy Forum, hosted by the Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA), spotlighted the state’s oil and natural gas industry’s pivotal role in powering both the U.S. and global economies. Bringing together energy leaders, policymakers, and experts, the Forum highlighted the state’s leadership in energy production, security, and innovation.
Governor Greg Abbott and former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice headlined the event. Governor Abbott noted that “Texas would not be Texas without the oil and gas sector,” calling the industry the lifeblood of the state’s economy. “Texas powers the American economy and provides national security through its oil and gas resources,” he said, stressing the state’s importance not only to the nation but also to global energy security.
TXOGA President Todd Staples echoed these sentiments, noting the state’s unmatched energy production, refining capacity, and exports. “Energy security is a necessity, not a luxury,” Staples stated, emphasizing how Texas’ energy infrastructure supports jobs, bolsters national security, and strengthens trade alliances worldwide.
The event also recognized industry leaders with TXOGA’s 89th Distinguished Service Awards. John Christmann, CEO of Apache Corporation, and Mike Wirth, CEO of Chevron, each received the prestigious award for their outstanding contributions to the industry.
A major feature of the Forum was a series of fireside chats with influential figures. Secretary Rice discussed the global energy landscape and the need for the U.S. to maintain its leadership role in energy production. Rice, known for her expertise in international relations, highlighted the critical importance of balancing energy demands with climate goals while ensuring continued energy security.
Governor Abbott also participated in a fireside chat moderated by Ryder Booth, Vice President of Chevron’s Mid-Continent Business Unit. Reflecting on the 2024 election, Abbott expressed optimism for the future of the Texas oil and gas sector under President-elect Donald Trump. “This is a golden era for America, and the same can be said for the Texas oil and gas industry,” Abbott said.
The forum featured in-depth discussions on the policy landscape, with TXOGA Chief Economist Dean Foreman offering insights into the challenges and opportunities for energy growth through 2025 and beyond. Panels focused on topics such as U.S.-Mexico energy relations and the Texas legislative landscape, with experts like Carlos Garcia of Valero and Francisco de Rosenzweig, former Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade for Mexico, discussing cross-border energy cooperation.
Governor Abbott also highlighted Texas’ economic policies, such as the Texas Energy Fund, which will play a key role in advancing energy sector growth. Abbott pointed to recent legislative efforts like House Bill 5, which provides local communities with tools to attract new energy projects, and touted his administration’s success in creating a business-friendly environment through initiatives like the largest property tax cut in Texas history.
Abbott spotlighted the need for a diverse energy mix to meet growing demands, suggesting that nuclear energy deployment should be prioritized alongside oil and gas production to ensure a robust, sustainable energy future for Texas.
As Staples concluded, “The innovation, infrastructure, and policy leadership we have in Texas will continue to strengthen economies, protect the environment, and power the world.” The Lone Star Energy Forum highlighted the continued strength of the Texas oil and gas industry. With a forward-looking policy agenda, strong infrastructure, and a commitment to innovation, Texas is well-positioned to lead in both domestic and global energy markets.
