Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Joe Manchin (D-WV), Chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, released the following statement on the Administration’s decision to move forward with the ‘Willow Project’ in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska. The project is expected to produce 160,000 barrels of oil per day and over 500 million barrels during its lifetime.

“While this action is overdue, I am pleased to see the Administration finally move forward with the ‘Willow Project.’ This is an important step towards reestablishing American energy independence and strengthening American energy security. Like West Virginia, Alaska has a robust history of contributing to American energy security and this project will position them to continue that legacy. Responsibly investing in and utilizing the abundance of natural resources on our federal lands and waters is critical to ensuring we are able to power our nation and support our allies around the globe. I will continue to work with the Administration to support projects like these that create good paying jobs and improve American energy security,” said Chairman Manchin.