We have once again come across a shortage of common sense here in this country. Much like the toilet paper scare back in March 2020, another commodity becoming scarce is causing people to act more irrationally than usual. We can thank whoever hacked into the Colonial Pipeline for that. This situation should also be used as a reminder of what we have and why it’s a good thing.
Since the pipeline went offline until the company restarted operations, people freaked out. The internet was full of photos of people filling anything from plastic bags to 55 gallon drums to make sure they did not get caught up in whatever share of the shortage would hit their area. This caused quite the concern, as the pipeline services areas in 14 different states in our country. Yet some areas were not nearly as affected as others. Why is that?
The Advocate published an article (link below) in which they describe the shortages as reported by an app called GasBuddy. The numbers ranged from 1% of gas stations reporting shortages in Louisiana, 7% in Mississippi and Alabama, and 20% in the Atlanta area. The reason why Louisiana fared so well? That would be because of the 17 oil refineries in Louisiana. These refineries do not just service Louisiana, they account for roughly 20% of the nation’s refinery capacity (according to the same Advocate article). Are you seeing the connection?
The oil and gas industry is very important to our area. The situation above is just one reason. There are, of course, many other benefits to these natural resources and the infrastructures we have to use them. Not to mention that we are just one state. Other states can and do refine crude and turn it into some of these products that we take for granted. The Colonial Pipeline incident clearly shows how a state which can largely support itself will handle a potential shortage.
If we take a step back from the areas serviced by the pipeline and take the nation as a whole, it should be very clear why energy independence is important for us. Imagine if the United States were forced to become net importers, and another worldwide event took place which restricted trade. Hopefully you haven’t forgot about 2020 yet because we saw something close as a result of the coronavirus. Such an event could be disastrous at the wrong time, or if the event lasted for a while. Not to mention the price of filling up your car if fuel is available.
The world is surely moving towards “green” energy, which is fine. Adaptability is key to survival. Until a total change is made, however, we should be keen to keep what works well in place. Energy policy can be discussed ‘til the cows come home, but common sense still needs to prevail. It’s plain to me that having resources and infrastructure to transform the resources close to home is better for everyone. We can make the change when the time comes. Until then, let’s make sure what we have in place will continue to work for us as smoothly as possible.
By the way, anyone want to place a bet on the next shortage? I’m going with willing workers for the restaurant and fast-food industry, but I’m always open to other ideas.
Sources:
https://www.theadvocate.com/acadiana/news/business/article_c1f4327c-b372-11eb-81ab-47f48ca6dd32.html
https://www.businessinsider.com/us-oil-exports-higher-imports-country-energy-independence-2020-9
Bayou Observant 
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