🌊 CEA Cheers on New Offshore Energy Leasing Plan for 2026-2031! 🚀

The Consumer Energy Alliance is applauding the Department of the Interior’s release of the new National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program for 2026 through 2031.

The updated plan includes 34 lease sales across the Pacific, expanded areas in the Gulf of America, and offshore Alaska. According to the organization, the schedule marks a significant step in supporting affordable, reliable, and domestically produced energy.

CEA Vice President Katie Hammons said the schedule represents a return to the way previous presidential administrations have managed the Gulf, describing it as an important resource that requires consistency to support continued investment. She said the expanded leasing areas will help provide the affordable and reliable energy needed by families and businesses.

The plan introduces a new South Central Gulf of America Planning Area with a 100 mile buffer off the Florida coast. No leases are proposed for the remaining Eastern planning area.

The Gulf of America is responsible for 15 percent of the nation’s crude oil production. Supporters of the plan say the leasing schedule will work to maintain a steady supply of energy, lessen economic impacts from inflation, and strengthen national energy security. The leasing program for 2026 through 2031 proposes to reestablish outer continental shelf production and position the United States to meet the needs of consumers with affordable and reliable energy.