Energy
As our country continues to work toward energy independence, I have worked hard in the state Senate to create an environment for North Dakota to be a leader in production and export of oil, coal, and natural gas as well as wind and alternative energies. I believe strongly that we must continue to innovate and work with industry so North Dakota can become a world leader in carbon sequestration and related technologies to enhance oil recovery and store greenhouse gases. Our next Public Service Commissioner will need to have the experience and knowledge to work with all levels of government and industry to set the stage for tremendous growth and opportunity for our state.
Oil Production and Pipelines ND is blessed with significant oil resources and as Public Service Commissioner I will continue to responsibly regulate and work with the industry to find ways to increase production and work on a pipeline to transport oil to market and maximize the barrel price. As Senate Majority Leader, I worked to support legislation (SB 2397, 2007 & HB 1530, 2005) to help increase exploration and production in the Bakken Shelf and horizontal and wildcat wells as well as increasing pipeline capacity (HB 1128, 2007) with the pipeline authority. ND is selling its oil at a discount because we lack pipeline capacity to move it. We need to increase our number and capacity of pipelines so we may continue to increase production and move our oil to market. Additionally, I supported legislation (SB 2419, 2007) and will continue to work with the Three Affiliated Tribes to drill for oil on the reservations.
Coal ND has some of largest coal resources in the world and as Public Service Commissioner I will work to continue to develop coal to electricity and coal to liquid processes. Our ND coal industry has some of the best emission standards in the country and we must also maintain these standards and our excellent reclamation programs.
Natural Gas In addition to oil and coal, ND has significant natural gas resources. As Public Service Commissioner I will continue to work with the industry to find ways to expand production and increase pipeline distribution systems.
Alternative Energies Ethanol, BioDiesel & Wind As energy demands increase worldwide, alternative fuels will play a part in our countrys move toward energy independence. As Senate Majority Leader, I supported legislation to spur alternative energies (HB 1221, 2001, Wind Energy Stimulus HB 1478, 2005, E-85 SB 2180, 2007, Biofuel PACE Funds SB 2288, 2007, Renewable Energy Incentives) and make them a part of the overall energy solution. As Public Service Commissioner, I will continue to support innovation and exploration into alternative fuels, including ethanol, biodiesel and wind. As an agricultural, entrepreneurial and rural state, and together with our institutional research abilities and private businesses, ND can be a leader in alternative energies while expanding economic development to all ND communities.
Transmission Line ND produces more energy than it uses and therefore we export this excess. As Senate Majority Leader, I supported legislation (HB 1169, 2005) to address our need to increase transmission lines and as Public Services Commissioner, I will continue to work to increase our transmission capabilities to expand our grid and distribution systems.
Comments or questions email me at bob@bobstenehjem.com.