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.