I’m delighted that the Daily Inter Lake highlighted some of the local examples of new thinking and entrepreneurship that are part of the broader New American Energy Revolution that I spoke about at the recent economic outlook seminar in Kalispell. They are important in demonstrating technology and innovation to meet energy needs and challenges.

These and other projects in Montana, including university research into CO2 storage, water resources and environmental engineering, will certainly lead to more use of renewables, improved use of coal, more efficient and reliable electric power supply and better conservation practices.

We must not, however, overlook or downplay the most dramatic and important underpinning of the national revolution that I spoke about: The stunning technology, innovation, operations and state regulatory changes in the oil and gas sector. They have caused a paradigm shift in how we are able to provide these fuels. And it is this that contributes most to our reduction in oil imports and increase in overall energy self-sufficiency.

Only a few years ago we could not economically produce oil or gas from the rocks I showed at the seminar. Today we can not only do so — bringing these “new” resources to consumers — but, with continually evolving technology like the micro seismic example I showed in a video clip, we will be able to do so more and more efficiently. Other technology, innovation, operational practice and state-led regulatory improvements (with Montana being a leader) will continue to improve confidence that we are producing these resources in the right ways.

I’m optimistic, confident and proud that Montana is doing its part in the revolution, in a spirit of entrepreneurship and cooperation. —Bill Whitsitt, Bigfork

 (EDITOR’S NOTE: Whitsitt, a retired energy executive, was the keynote speaker at the Economic Outlook seminar held in Kalispell on Feb. 13. He is executive in residence at the University of Montana School of Business Administration’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research.)