Biden Administration Weighs Approval of $8 Billion Willow Oil Drilling Initiative In Alaska
Biden administration recommends reduced version of significant oil drilling initiative in Alaska's North Slope.
Decision to potentially approve $8 billion Willow plan made after environmental analysis by Interior Department's Bureau of Land Management.
Willow project to be led by ConocoPhillips, Alaska's largest crude oil producer, with reduced number of drilling sites from five to three.
Biden administration has 30 days to make a final decision on Willow project.
Willow project could produce 600 million barrels of oil and generate 278 million metric tons of carbon emissions over 30 years.
Environmental groups oppose Willow project as contradicts efforts to decrease fossil fuel production and would emit as much as 66 new coal-fired power plants in a year.
Interior Department expressed "substantial concerns" about Willow project's impact on greenhouse gas emissions and local wildlife.
Supporters of Willow project argue it would bring benefits such as jobs, revenue, and enhanced energy security.
ConocoPhillips welcomes and is reviewing the government's environmental analysis, while Senator Manchin praised the decision as a step towards restoring energy independence.
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