DOE Faces Questions Over Proposed West Coast Petroleum Reserve

Two U.S. senators are seeking details on reported discussions between the Department of Energy and Sable Offshore regarding a proposed West Coast Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

(P&GJ) — Two Democratic senators are seeking information from the U.S. Department of Energy regarding reports that the agency is discussing a potential West Coast Strategic Petroleum Reserve with Sable Offshore Corp.

In a letter to Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Sens. Alex Padilla of California and Patty Murray of Washington requested details on any plans to establish a regional petroleum reserve on the West Coast, as well as communications between the department and Sable. The lawmakers argue Congress has not authorized funding or planning for a new regional petroleum reserve.

The request follows comments by Wright indicating the DOE has been in discussions with Sable regarding a potential petroleum reserve in California. According to the senators, Sable recently submitted a proposal outlining a West Coast reserve concept.

The lawmakers also questioned whether the department has the authority to move forward with a new reserve absent congressional approval. They asked DOE to provide information on any ongoing activities related to the proposal and to explain what funding sources and authorities would be used if the project advances.

No decision has been announced regarding the creation of a West Coast Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and DOE has not publicly outlined any formal plans for such a facility.