Three & One

Yesterday Alaska's Governor Sean Parnell met with the CEO's of ExxonMobil, BP, and ConocoPhillips to talk about commercialization of North Slope gas, boosting Alaskan oil output and Point Thomson.(LINK to Governors press release), and the agenda:

It's not a kumbaya moment yet, but I'll give the Governor and the CEOs credit  for manning up and doing the adult thing, i.e. start talking about the issues that are stalling development of oil and gas in Alaska.  This group should talk more often.  Quote from the Governor:

“I appreciate the willingness of the chief executives to come to Alaska to discuss the important topic of commercializing North Slope gas,” Governor Parnell said. “For a gas project to advance, all three companies need to be aligned behind it. This meeting is an important step, but much work remains.”

Nice work Governor, don't let up.

A Turning Point?

Will Point Thomson become the turning point for State of Alaska & North Slope producers?

Perhaps - According to Govoner Sean Parnell:

"I think we are at a place where we need to resolve the Point Thomson litigation. I am working at that already. If I can resolve that litigation in Alaska's interest, I will do so." (LINK)

Rich Kruger, President of ExxonMobil Production Company had this to say:

ExxonMobil wants to see Point Thomson developed. We believe it underpins the success of the Alaska Pipeline Project. The owners’ commitment to achieving progress at Point Thomson is demonstrated by investments which have now topped $1 billion. (LINK).

I wouldn't call this a Kumbaya moment, but it's a step in the right direction. Maybe Parnell is starting to feel the heat from calls to oust ExxonMobil playa hater Tom Irwin (LINK to Halcro).

Parnell's to-do list should also include tackling the fiscal certainty. It's in Alaska's interest to explore for, produce and market oil and gas. Go for it Governor, get'er done!