Longer Laterals EP6: Rob West Quantifies the Staggering Consumer Cost Savings, Emissions Reductions Delivered by U.S. Shale
February 18, 2026
Washington, D.C. – The American Exploration & Production Council (AXPC) released Episode 6 of Longer Laterals, where Thunder Said Energy founder Rob West unpacks the Shale Revolution’s track record of lowering consumer costs and emissions. Recognized for his data-driven, no-nonsense analysis of global energy markets, Rob discusses the economics and technologies shaping energy and what it means for America’s competitiveness.
Rob’s key Shale Revolution findings:
American consumers saved $800 billion annually thanks to lower energy prices
Shale lowered inflation by 0.7% per year
Without shale, oil prices would be $150-$200 per barrel (vs. $55-$65 today)
Natural gas would be $10+ per Mcf (vs. $2-$4 today)
Increasing reliance on natural gas power generation eliminated 500 million tons of CO2 emissions annually
Check out the latest episode for expert insights on the LNG export demand curve, the forces behind oil demand growth in developed markets, and more.
About Longer Laterals
Hosted by Anne Bradbury, Longer Laterals takes you beyond the headlines to explore the driving forces shaping U.S. oil and natural gas today. Each episode, Anne sits down with the key energy players to unpack the policies, challenges, and opportunities that impact jobs, communities, and America’s role as a global energy leader. Subscribe to Longer Laterals on YouTube or listen on Spotify.
