GREEN: When it comes to carbon capture, the choice is clear: lead, or lose

Louisiana has a proud tradition of leading the way in American energy. Our state has powered the country for generations and now stands at the forefront of another energy and sustainability revolution: carbon capture and sequestration. But if we allow fear and misinformation campaigns to shape public policy, we risk turning a winning hand into a lost opportunity.

The good news is that Louisiana was one of the first states in the country to secure what’s called federal “primacy” for carbon capture regulation. That means our state doesn’t have to rely on Washington to greenlight these projects — we can do it locally and responsibly, with our own experts and agencies. The industry responded and our citizens are benefiting. Today, there’s more than $20 billion in proposed CCS investment across the state.

In March, Gov. Jeff Landry and President Donald Trump announced the arrival of Hyundai Steel Company’s first North American steel mill, a $5.8 billion investment in Ascension Parish. Expected to begin construction in 2026, the facility will create approximately 1,300 direct jobs — averaging $95,000 annually — and an estimated 4,100 indirect jobs throughout the region.

Notably, this project is only possible because of our state’s emerging CCS infrastructure, which provides Hyundai with a path to meet global decarbonization goals while operating in one of the world’s most competitive industrial corridors. It’s a shining example of how we can grow our economy and reduce emissions, all while strengthening our workforce and communities.

This kind of momentum doesn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of smart, forward-looking decisions by state leaders. But momentum is fragile. And lately, it’s been at risk.

In the most recent legislative session, a wave of proposals emerged that would add new restrictions, slow permitting and inject confusion into a process that has, so far, positioned Louisiana ahead of its peers.

While some of these proposals stem from genuine concerns, many are fueled by politics and influence from out-of-state activist groups that are opposed to the oil and gas industry. If partisan politics or misinformation are allowed to derail CCS in Louisiana, the only real winner will be Texas.

For years, Louisiana has set the pace across the Gulf Coast region when it comes to attracting energy and industrial investment. But that lead is narrowing.

While misinformation fuels debate and delays in Baton Rouge, neighboring states, especially Texas, are moving quickly to streamline permitting, encourage innovation and attract capital. Mississippi and Alabama are making strides, too. If Louisiana continues to create uncertainty in the process, we risk falling behind and taking the region’s momentum down with it.

Investors and developers have choices. They want to go where the rules are clear and consistent. Texas offers certainty, speed and strong state support, with its final hearing for CCS primacy quickly approaching and full approval expected by the end of the year.

Louisiana still has a chance to lead. We can build on our early decisions, talent and momentum, and become the national hub for safe, responsible carbon storage and utilization. That will bring jobs, investment and a more sustainable future.

Or we can allow partisan noise to mire us in confusion and second-guessing, all the while watching others seize the moment. If Louisiana doesn’t move decisively, the jobs, investment and future of energy leadership will move without it.