The Impact of Energy Independence on Welding
Energy independence is one of those perennial issues that it seems every politician promises progress on but rarely implements any significant steps toward. Perhaps with the dramatic increase in crude oil prices over the last two years and the urgency it has created in the national consciousness, this election season and the ensuing four years will be different. We can always hope.
From the welding industry’s perspective, it appears that anything but the status quo will yield a net increase in welding jobs.
Lifting sanctions to allow new offshore oil drilling will result in the construction of new oil rigs, pipelines and other infrastructure that is very welding intensive.
Increasing our energy independence with nuclear power will likewise require infrastructure development that will open up new welding positions (and very high-paying positions at that).
Turning toward alternative energy sources such as wind power, hydro-electric, geo-thermal and others will once again create new welding jobs in the process.
Some combination of all three options – new domestic oil drilling, increased nuclear output and advancements in alternative energy – will likely provide the best practical and political solution.
What is your take on the issue? How will our nation’s quest for energy independence affect the welding industry? Is there a scenario in which you believe the welding industry will suffer? Share your thoughts by posting a comment below.
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August 4th, 2008 at 6:00 pm
The only scenario that would have a negative impact on the welding industry would be if the US is very slow to exercise our options for energy independence,
and oil prices keep rising to the point where people and industry must cut back on, or eliminate expansion, construction, etc.
As we build for energy independence the welding industry will benefit, increased sales, machines, consumables, and big increases in welding jobs.
The question remains, with the welder shortage will the US be ready, or will allot of these welding jobs be filled by illegal, or legal aliens?