In the intricate web of Colorado’s economic landscape, the continued production of oil and gas emerges as a vital thread, weaving together prosperity, employment and energy security. As of 2021, the industry directly sustained more than 50,000 jobs in the state and injected more than $15 billion into Coloradans’ income. Acknowledging America’s current record oil production is largely attributed to previous administrations’ investments and supportive policies, it becomes imperative for Colorado to recognize and uphold the importance of its role in this national narrative.

However, the path ahead is not without challenges. The shifting dynamics of energy policies demand our state remains committed to investing in smart, forward-thinking strategies that balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. As we navigate the complexities of a changing energy landscape, it is essential for our state and federal administration to foster an environment that encourages continued oil and gas production while also pioneering sustainable solutions. The stakes are high, with the livelihoods of thousands of Coloradans hanging in the balance, underscoring the gravity of the decisions our government makes today in shaping a resilient and energy-secure tomorrow.

In safeguarding our nation’s security, the oil and gas industry emerges as a linchpin, crucial for fostering resilience. Colorado, as the fifth-highest producer of oil and gas in the United States, plays a pivotal role in this strategic landscape. The link between energy and national security is profound, and restricting oil and natural gas production and investment risks creating new dependencies on unstable regions worldwide. This perilous trajectory threatens to return us to the energy scarcity experienced half-a-century ago, a vulnerability we cannot afford in an increasingly complex geopolitical climate.

The presence of American military installations in Colorado, such as Buckley Air Force Base in Aurora or Fort Carson in El Paso County, underscores the intertwined nature of energy security and defense capabilities in our state. The ability to produce energy domestically is paramount, ensuring we are not beholden to unfriendly nations for our vital resources. Dependence on foreign sources not only jeopardizes our economic stability but also compromises our geopolitical autonomy.

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Colorado’s contribution to the national energy landscape is not merely an economic endeavor but a strategic imperative, fortifying our nation against external pressures. As we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, the importance of the oil and gas industry in preserving our national security cannot be overstated — it’s a clarion call to uphold energy independence and secure the foundations of our sovereignty.

In the pursuit of American energy independence, investing in robust energy infrastructure is an imperative that cannot be overstated. Restrictive policies can impede necessary infrastructure investments, hinder access to energy, be costly and impede the adoption of technologies that could expedite environmental progress. It is a paradoxical situation where a forward-looking vision for domestic energy production in the state and across the country are hampered by insufficient infrastructure support. The oil and gas produced in Colorado adheres to some of the strictest environmental standards in the nation.

As we acknowledge the necessity of oil and gas in our current energy landscape, it becomes paramount to produce in regions like Colorado, where stringent environmental standards are already in place. The synergy between energy production and environmental stewardship is achievable with strategic infrastructure investments, paving the way for a sustainable energy future that balances our reliance on oil and gas with a commitment to more efficient environmental technologies.

What is imperative now is the wholehearted endorsement of a bold and strategic energy vision by policymakers, championing the paramount role of American oil and natural gas. In particular, lawmakers must proactively support policies aimed at reinstating American energy leadership, a leadership that draws considerable inspiration from the state of Colorado. It is in this context the American Petroleum Institute recently unveiled its “Lights On Energy” campaign, offering actionable solutions to America’s pressing energy challenges. It recognizes the indispensable role of American oil and gas in meeting the demands of the present and future.

As our nation strives for a sustainable energy transition, “Lights On Energy” becomes a guiding beacon, and Colorado, with its strategic significance and commitment to responsible energy practices, stands as a key player in the realization of these critical objectives. The plan not only addresses the immediate need for reliable energy but also charts a course toward a future where economic prosperity and environmental responsibility coexist.

Colorado’s pivotal role in this endeavor should showcase the state’s dedication to meeting the country’s increasing energy demands, providing a model for responsible and sustainable energy practices that can illuminate the path forward for the entire nation.

Kait Schwartz is director of API Colorado, a division of the American Petroleum Institute.