2026 News

 

Center releases White Paper on Economic Impacts of Carbon Capture and Sequestration Projects for Louisiana

Posted March 6, 2026

A new report from the LSU Center for Energy Studies presents estimates of the potential economic activity associated with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) projects in Louisiana. Using publicly announced projects and associated infrastructure requirements, the analysis compiles investment, employment, and output estimates based on the modeling framework described in the report.

The analysis identifies 13 announced projects with a carbon capture component with investments totaling approximately $48 billion dollars. In addition, the study identifies 33 existing facilities as practically feasible for CO₂ capture that currently employ approximately 4,200 workers. The report also estimates the pipeline infrastructure and Class VI sequestration wells required to sequester approximately 46 million metric tons of CO₂ per year from these announced and existing facilities.

Using the estimated expenses, an economic impact is estimated using the Louisiana Economic Impact Model (LEIM), developed by the LSU Center for Energy Studies, to estimate how CCS-related investment could affect employment, labor income, and economic output in Louisiana and the United States.

The study found the following economic impacts:

• If all announced projects were completed, the report estimates it would support approximately 39,900 jobs over the next 7 years.
• Once completed these facilities would support approximately 3,500 permanent jobs.
• Construction of pipelines and drilling at sequestration sites are estimated to support approximately 2,000 additional jobs over the next 7 years.

Read the full report here.

Dr. Gregory Upton Shares 2026 Gulf Coast Energy Outlook at SOWELA

LSU Center for Energy Studies Executive Director Gregory Upton recently spoke to the Gulf Coast Industrial Group at SOWELA Technical Community College in Lake Charles, Louisiana.

Upton’s presentation focused on the 2026 Gulf Coast Energy Outlook, providing an in-depth assessment of market trends, policy developments, and economic factors shaping Louisiana’s energy landscape. The discussion brought together regional industry leaders and workforce partners to examine both the challenges and emerging opportunities facing the state’s energy sector.

The event created a valuable forum for collaboration and perspective-sharing at a pivotal time for Gulf Coast energy development.

The Center extends its appreciation to SOWELA and the Gulf Coast Industrial Group for the invitation and for their continued leadership in fostering meaningful dialogue about the region’s energy future.

 

Energy Fundamentals 2026 is now accepting applications

We are pleased to announce the 2026 dates for the Energy Fundamentals Course, a learning opportunity covering the energy landscape for Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. We’re offering two one-week sessions to choose from, bringing together early career professionals, teachers, and government workers for engaging and collaborative learning this summer.

📅 Session 1: June 22–26, 2026
📅 Session 2: July 13–17, 2026

Learn more about this exciting opportunity!