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On July 30, 2008, Interior Secretary Kempthorne and I announced a major new energy initiative for the nation's Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). Today's action not only highlights the important role the OCS plays in meeting America's energy needs -- it will also open discussions across the country about how best to expand the nation's domestic energy production.

In light of the current energy situation and President Bush’s lifting of the Executive Withdrawal, Secretary Kempthorne directed the MMS to begin the initial steps for developing a new Five-Year Program. We are, in effect, getting a two-year jumpstart on that process, but it is still a multi-step and multi-year effort to develop the program.

The current Five-Year Program took effect on July 1, 2007 at a time when oil was only $64 a barrel and does not contain many of the areas that were under Withdrawal and remain under Congressional ban. Should the Congressional ban be lifted, a new program would have to be developed to make those areas available.

This action is designed to encourage discussions about the OCS areas of greatest interest, with the greatest potential. New areas will not be available for leasing until the new Five-Year Program is complete, having incorporated multiple rounds of public comment, and Congressional approval.

This initiative will not circumvent or abbreviate our environmental review process and consultation obligations with coastal States and other stakeholders. MMS stands committed to meeting America's energy needs while continuing to protect our marine and coastal environments. Please visit our “Environmental” section to see some of the current environmental work we are providing.

This action is in addition to our development of the Alternative Energy/Alternative Use program in the OCS. For more information on that rulemaking process, please visit our “Rules Development” section. (07/31/2008) 

Randall Luthi
Director , Minerals Management Service

Media Contact:
   Blossom Robinson  202-208-3985