If policymakers want a real world example of how offshore access shapes long-term energy security, API and NOIA’s New South Central Gulf report discusses how South-Central Gulf expansion will create immense economic value, support long-term employment, and strengthen American’ energy independence.
The study finds that opening Program Area B, or the newly designed South-Central Gulf of America Planning Area, to leasing beginning in 2029 would:
- Add over 470,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day by 2040,
- Support 133,000+ jobs,
- Generate $13.1 billion in capital investment and industry spending,
- Drive $11.3 billion in U.S. GDP,
- And bring in ~$1.5 billion in government revenues.
This is a meaningful new source of secure American energy supply.
As NOIA President Erik Milito affirmed:
“At a time of rising global demand and geopolitical uncertainty, expanding access strengthens America’s long-term ability to produce energy at home, build energy dominance, support our energy workers, and keep investment and capital here in the United States.”
Unlocking the South-Central Gulf’s Resource Potential
The Trump administration has taken steps to enable increased utilization of our natural energy resources. The 11th National Offshore Leasing Program aims to advance domestic energy security and expand oil and gas production through 2031 by executing over 30 lease sales covering 1.27 billion acres.
The South-Central Gulf sits next to one of the world’s most established offshore energy systems, with the infrastructure, workforce, and technical expertise already in place to support new investment. API and NOIA correctly frame the opportunity as a natural extension of a proven Gulf energy ecosystem.
Source: Energy and Industrial Advisory Partners, Energy Information Administration
As API Senior Vice President of Policy, Economics, and Regulatory Affairs Dustin Meyer highlighted:
“In a volatile global energy environment, the United States is in a stronger position today because of sustained investment in domestic energy production and policies that support access to diverse supply regions within our borders. Expanding access to the South-Central Gulf of America creates a new source of secure domestic energy—helping meet growing demand while strengthening our economic and national security.”
We Have the Resources, Now is the Time to Act
Offshore development works on long timelines. In the scenario modeled in the report, leasing begins in 2029 and first production does not arrive until 2035, with nine projects projected to come online by 2040. That is exactly why access and regulatory certainty matter now. Delay today means less supply, less investment, and fewer jobs later in the decade. The United States has everything it needs to lead in this space: a vast energy reserve capacity, proven infrastructure, technical expertise, and a skilled workforce. Increased offshore access is the next step towards cementing American energy dominance – and it requires proactive leasing and regulatory support to ensure the Gulf’s full potential isn’t left untapped.
Opening the South-Central Gulf region doesn’t just add barrels to production forecasts, it attracts the investments necessary to drive production at a global scale and strengthen U.S. energy security.
Bottom line: API and NOIA’s new report sends a clear message: American energy leadership does not happen by accident. It requires access, predictability, and the willingness to develop world-class domestic resources responsibly. The South-Central Gulf provides more supply, more jobs, more investment, and stronger energy security. The real question is whether policymakers will let that opportunity move from paper to production.
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