Interagency Working Group on Domestic Energy Development in Alaska
Jul 15, 2011
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Jul 12, 2011
Published on: Jul 15, 2011
Jul 15, 2011
Signed by: Barack Obama
Signed on: Jul 12, 2011
Published on: Jul 15, 2011
Summary
Establishes a team of government agencies to work together on safely developing oil and gas energy in Alaska.
What problem does this solve?
Getting permits for energy projects in Alaska involves many different government agencies, which can be slow and confusing. This order creates a single working group to make sure all the agencies work together efficiently and safely.
What does this order do?
Establishes a new working group
Creates the Interagency Working Group on Coordination of Domestic Energy Development and Permitting in Alaska to make energy development more efficient and responsible.
Defines leadership and membership
Appoints the Deputy Secretary of the Interior as the group's Chair. Members include representatives from the Departments of Defense, Commerce, Energy, and the Environmental Protection Agency, among others.
Outlines key responsibilities
Tasks the group with coordinating permit decisions, sharing scientific information, planning for oil spill prevention, and working with state, local, and tribal governments.
Creates specific points of contact
Requires the working group to name a main contact person for the State of Alaska and another for local communities and Alaska Native organizations to improve communication.
Who does this affect?
- Energy companies
- Federal agencies
- Alaskan communities and tribal governments
What is the real world impact?
•
Improves government efficiency
Creates a single point of coordination for multiple federal agencies involved in a complex process. This helps avoid delays and ensures all departments are working with the same information.
•
Balances energy needs with environmental protection
Aims to speed up the development of domestic energy to reduce reliance on foreign oil. At the same time, it requires coordination on safety, health, and environmental standards to ensure development is responsible.
When does this start?
This order became effective when it was signed on July 12, 2011.