Chevron’s leadership expressed strong concerns last week regarding California’s energy policies as the price of gasoline in the state surged past $4 a gallon, partly due to a series of oil refinery closures.
Andy Walz, the company’s global refining president, mentioned during a Fox Business interview that he’s “pretty concerned” about the current trajectory of energy regulation in California.
He noted, “We need a different environment. We need to welcome it. We need incentives for investment, and quite frankly, some regulations should be eased.” His frustration was palpable as he added that “it’s a very difficult place to do business.”
This criticism coincides with Chevron’s campaign aimed at California drivers, encouraging them to push back against the state’s green energy policies. Signs at Chevron stations in locations like Agoura Hills feature messages claiming that “California’s taxes and fees are the highest in America,” urging motorists to take action.
The initiative includes a QR code linking to the Chevron Advocacy Network, which claims to represent Californians advocating for “smart, balanced policies” that protect jobs and encourage energy innovation. Interestingly, the group insists they’re not lobbyists, a point they reiterated during communications, though they did not respond to further inquiries.
A Chevron spokesperson made the case that rising fuel prices in California are directly tied to refinery closures, which they attribute to strict state regulations. “The fluctuations consumers are seeing today stem from over two decades of state regulation and tax increases, which have limited supply by deterring investment in refining and related infrastructures,” the spokesperson stated.
As of Monday, California’s average gas price stood at $4.59 per gallon, a stark contrast to the national average of $2.93, according to AAA. Energy experts warn that the increase is linked to the shutdown of several refineries, including Phillips 66’s facility in Los Angeles, causing a steady decline in local gasoline production capacity.
Gas shortages have heightened the state’s dependence on imports from places like the Bahamas, as highlighted by various reports.
