Alaska oil goes to U.S. refineries, not overseas

The Trans-Alaska Pipeline runs from Prudhoe Bay to Valdez, Alaska. (Photograph courtesy of the National Museum of American History)

Re: “Case for energy independence,” June 20 letter to the editor.

In his letter promoting American energy independence, Harry Puncec states, “Alaska oil goes overseas while foreign petroleum comes here because in its raw form it’s more compatible with our refining capabilities.”

Not true.

As a 30-year resident of the 49th state, I have spent countless conversations debunking this myth. The 1973 Trans-Alaska Pipeline Authorization Act required North Slope crude be shipped to refineries in the U.S. The ban was rescinded during the Clinton administration, but less than 7 percent of Alaska oil was shipped overseas, mostly to Asian countries, from 1996 to 2000.

Since oil started flowing through the Trans-Alaska Pipeline in 1977, all but a few tanker loads more than 15 years ago have gone to U.S. refineries, primarily on the West Coast.

Matt Hayes, Mead

This letter was published in the June 24 edition.

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