americanchemistry.com : energy

ACC believes that access to a reliable, affordable supply of energy—especially natural gas—is vital to chemical makers, the future of the American manufacturing base and the health of the U.S. economy as a whole. Chemistry materials go into energy-saving products such as building insulation, lightweight vehicle parts, “low rolling resistance” tires, solar panels, wind power blades, compact fluorescent light bulbs, automotive and industrial lubricants, and many others.

Media Contact: Jennifer Scott
Phone: 703-741-5813

America’s chemical industry is the largest energy consumer in the manufacturing sector. Chemical companies use large amounts of natural gas—more than the state of California—both to heat and power our facilities and as a raw material for chemistry that goes into thousands of consumer and industrial products. Other U.S. industries also depend on natural gas for production, among them steel, aluminum, cement and agriculture.

Given our industry’s reliance on natural gas for production, one of our most pressing challenges is its cost and volatility. In some countries, natural gas can be purchased for far less than in the United States. Chemical makers and other manufacturers simply cannot compete effectively in the global market when the cost of one of their key “inputs” is so much higher. Consumers see the impact as well—in their home heating and electricity bills—natural gas is increasingly used for electricity generation—and in the cost of products they buy that are made with natural gas, as higher energy costs ripple through the supply chain.

Government policies exert significant influence on domestic energy price and supply. Clearly, consensus has developed in Congress that current OCS policy—a blanket ban on energy development off the Atlantic and Pacific coasts—must be changed. America’s energy needs require expanded access to domestic sources. ACC has long advocated for a balanced energy policy that includes efficiency, conservation, diversity (including renewables) and expanded domestic energy supply. As these issues continue to occupy center stage in Congress, these will remain our key priorities.

news and highlights

Audio Conference and Materials: American Materials Manufacturing Alliance (AMMA) Says Many Concerns for U.S. Manufacturing in Senate EPW Climate Bill » learn more

New Study Confirms Key Role for Chemical Industry in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions » learn more

ACC’s Cal Dooley Comments on Energy and Environment Issues on National Journal’s Experts Blog » view comments

AMMA Letter to Senate EPW Committee Members on Climate Legislation, July 15, 2009 » view letter

ACC Allowance Allocation Testimony to House Energy and Environment Subcommittee, June 9, 2009 » view testimony

Cal Dooley Welcomes Washington, DC Attendees to a U.S. News & World Report National Issues Briefing: “Energy and Climate Change in the Obama Administration and 111th Congress,” January 13, 2009 » view transcript