BISMARCK - The worldwide demand for energy supplies is so great that the days of oil companies and alternative energy industries knocking heads has gone by the wayside, two energy officials said Monday.
They spoke at the Great Plains Energy Expo, which continues today at the Bismarck Civic Center. It is sponsored by Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.
An estimated 600 to 700 people attended, including exhibitors and speakers. It's thrown a wide net, drawing in representatives from traditional energy sources such as coal and oil, and alternative sources such as wind and biofuels.
"I'm not here to compete with alternative fuels," said Steve Hinchman, Marathon Oil's vice president of worldwide production and one of three keynote speakers. "There's enough demand for energy for all (sources)." He said the conference is "more about what we have in common."
He said Marathon has its own ethanol plants and facilities that blend petroleum with ethanol.
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Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman said the global demand for energy continues to climb and "these challenges will only grow more pressing."
There is no question the nation needs to embrace alternative energy sources and more nuclear power plants, along with modern development of traditional fuels, he said.
"In reality, we have to do it. In my view, we have no choice," he said.
Marathon has purchased 200,000 acres of mineral leases in North Dakota and vows to punch 150 to 300 new oil wells in western North Dakota's Bakken shale formation.
"I think we've just scratched the tip" of oil exploration in the state, Hinchman said.
Bodman said the conference "could not have come about at a better time," considering the rising energy demand worldwide.
"The United States must take steps now" to develop every energy source it can, he said. "Any strategy must recognize there is no one silver bullet."
Cole works for Forum Communications Co., which owns The Forum. She can be reached at (701) 224-0830 or forumcap@btinet.net Expo targets energy need Janell Cole 20071030
