2019 Annual Report

Page 52

GOED 2019 Annual Repor t

Utah Strategic Industry Clusters Governor’s Energy Summit, featuring Gov. Herbert and Rick Perry, U.S. Secretary of Energy Photo courtesy of Julia Breinholt-Pappas

The Governor’s Office of Energy Development strategically partners with GOED, World Trade Center Utah, the Economic Development Corporation of Utah, chambers of commerce and other key agencies and organizations regionally, nationally and globally to advance significant and lasting outcomes for Utah’s bright energy and minerals future.

Energy and Natural Resources Energy and minerals play an essential role in Utah, contributing more than 60,000 high paying jobs and $20 billion to the state’s economy. The Office of Energy Development (OED), an independent, technical office that navigates a rapidly changing energy landscape, is led by the governor’s Energy Advisor, Dr. Laura Nelson. OED sets a national standard for delivering high value results to a state’s economy and residents. Utah is a net exporter of energy and minerals. Nationally, Utah ranks 13 th for natural gas production, and in 2018 increased crude oil production pushed Utah to 10 th. Utah’s coal production also increased in 2018, with one-fifth of the state’s coal exported globally. Utah also experienced significant growth in renewable energy, with about 14% of Utah’s net electricity coming from renewable sources. Solar power has grown by 25% since 2015, making Utah among the top 10 states for solar capacity. Utah has five wind farms operating with nearly 400 megawatts of capacity, and the state is among the best in the nation for geothermal potential. “By creating my Office of Energy Development, I set Utah on a course to become an unparalleled leader for providing affordable, reliable and clean energy through wise policy, responsible development and innovation,” said Gov. Gary R. Herbert.

Contact Laura Nelson | Governor’s Energy Advisor Governor’s Office of Energy Development energy.utah.gov

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