Washington, DC – Today Congressman Mark Udall (D-Eldorado Springs) issued the following statement regarding the issuance of final regulations for the development of oil shale. The final regulations for the commercial leasing of oil shale were issued despite outstanding questions about how much water would be required to develop oil shale, how much power would be needed, or whether the technologies are even commercially viable. Early this year, the White House threatened to shut down the federal government unless the moratorium on finalizing commercial oil shale regulations was lifted.
“I am not surprised, but still deeply disappointed that this Administration is still rushing to finalize these regulations before serious resource, economic, energy and royalty issues have been more fully addressed. In so doing, it is ignoring the preferences of Colorado communities, particularly those on the Western Slope. I will continue to stand up for the Western Slope and work to restore a responsible process for oil shale development that helps us move forward on energy development, while protecting Colorado's water, land and rural communities."
“I support the oil shale research and development program and responsible development of our oil and gas resources along with comprehensive energy solutions that include the expansion of onshore and offshore development. There are great opportunities for economic growth and job creation in Colorado's energy economy, and I will work with the next Administration to make sure we take full advantage of those opportunities without a premature rush to a full-scale development of oil shale.”
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