After the US mid-terms
US energy policy remains President Obama's number-one priority, but with control of Congress in the balance, it will remain in limbo
AFTER almost two years of watching partisan politics virtually paralyse the US Congress, the public is in a surly mood. The Democrats, who were last month in control of the Senate and House of Representatives, could suffer significant damage if voters express their discontent at the polls on 2 November. Historically, the midterm elections have cost the majority party some seats. If Republicans make significant gains this month, what can the industry expect after the 112th Congress convenes in January? Even if the Democrats maintain their majority, most likely the window of opportunity to win passage of a comprehensive energy package has already closed. Although President Barack Obama has ran
Also in this section
23 April 2026
The addition of an oil pipeline to the Power of Siberia 2 gas project could ensure deliveries of Russian oil to China, materially shorten logistics lines between West Siberia and final customers, and—amid disruption in the Strait of Hormuz—offer a land-based export route that reduces exposure to maritime chokepoints
23 April 2026
There is a clear push to bolster exports to Asia amid uncertainty around its North American neighbour, but there are limits to the benefits from the energy crisis
23 April 2026
Shell made the play-opening discovery in Namibia’s Orange basin back in 2022, but its next well could decide whether the project can actually be commercialised
22 April 2026
The failure of OMV Petrom’s keenly watched exploration campaign at Bulgaria’s Han Asparuh block highlights the Black Sea’s uneven track record, despite major successes like Neptun Deep and Sakarya






