Pete Domenici: “I am aware of the concern expressed by numerous producers and Senators about Department of Energy plans to close such…”

“I am aware of the concern expressed by numerous producers and Senators about Department of Energy plans to close such oil and gas research facilities. I understand that according to Energy Information Administration data, fossil fuels provide over 80 percent of U.S. energy supply, and oil and natural gas will continue to provide 65 percent of domestic energy needs for 20 to 25 years in the future. I understand the argument that is thus fitting that the National Energy Technology Laboratory devote a significant portion of its research to fossil fuels and oil and gas technology research and development. I understand that independent oil and natural gas producers--small- business owners--drill 85 percent of the wells in the U.S. and provide 75 percent of America's natural gas supply. Independents produce 60 percent of the crude oil in the lower 48 States. I understand that a 2003 National Petroleum Council study stated: ``Eighty percent of domestic natural gas production in 10 years will be from wells yet to be drilled. . . . Small, independent producers will drill most of these wells.'' I understand the argument that such independent producers have comparatively limited capacity for research and development of new oil and gas technologies.…”