Top 5 Friday: Energy Developments Driving Alaska and North America

johnpreed4
21 minutes ago
2 min read

From federal permitting decisions and industry investments to Alaska-specific news and shifting energy policy landscapes, here are five recent stories shaping the energy sector across Alaska and North America.

1️⃣ U.S. to Auction Oil & Gas Drilling Rights in Alaska Reserve (Feb 2026)

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management scheduled an oil and gas lease sale in the National Petroleum Reserve–Alaska (NPR-A) for March 9, 2026, covering over 5.5 million acres. This sale marks the first NPR-A offering in several years and is part of a broader regulatory push to expand domestic energy production and economic activity in Alaska. Critics warn it could threaten sensitive ecosystems, while proponents argue it strengthens U.S. energy independence.

2️⃣ Alaska Job Forecast Sees Growth in Oil & Gas Sector (Jan 2026)

Alaska’s 2026 state job forecast projects employment growth in oil and gas, with around 1,000 new jobs expected, making the sector a leader in statewide job creation. Despite broader economic uncertainty, energy activity remains strong, partly due to ongoing production and development efforts. This trend underscores how Alaska’s energy economy continues to anchor labor markets, particularly in traditionally hard-to-fill skilled roles.

3️⃣ Energy Industry Leaders Converge for Offshore & Marine Innovation Forum (Feb 2026)

In New York City, leaders in offshore energy, marine tech, and grid development are convening at the 2026 International Partnering Forum to discuss large-scale ocean energy projects and supply chain innovation. Panels range from grid development to advanced offshore wind tech, showing how collaboration across industry segments is increasingly critical in clean energy deployment.

🔗 Read more: https://www.nacleanenergy.com/

4️⃣ Alaska Economic Forecast Highlights Energy Sector’s Role (Jan 2026)

Alaska economists and industry leaders released a 2026 economic outlook emphasizing that oil, gas, and mining continue to be major drivers of the state’s economy. While global uncertainty weighs on energy prices, industry observers remain optimistic about sustained activity and potential capital projects that could support local jobs and investment.

5️⃣ Federal Judge Allows East Coast Offshore Wind Project to Resume (Feb 2026)

A federal judge ruled that the Sunrise Wind offshore wind project off New York can resume construction after a halt tied to national security concerns. The project is part of a larger network of offshore wind facilities expected to generate gigawatts of clean electricity and support tens of thousands of jobs. This decision restores momentum for U.S. offshore wind amidst legal and regulatory challenges.