Trump Administration Reopens Santa Ynez Unit, Boosting U.S. Energy Security

The Interior Department has reopened the Santa Ynez Unit in the Pacific, a move expected to significantly enhance U.S. energy security. This region, which has been inactive since 2015 following an oil spill, holds an estimated 190 million barrels of recoverable oil, representing 80% of Pacific reserves and 3% of total U.S. production potential. Houston-based Sable Energy acquired the site from ExxonMobil in 2024 and is now reviving operations. Three platforms—Harmony, Heritage, and Hondo—are set to come online by year-end, each capable of producing up to 10,000 barrels daily. Harmony is already operational, with Heritage set to begin production in October and Hondo by December. This swift reactivation, achieved in just five months, underscores efficient regulatory navigation. California, despite its high gasoline prices, has been importing oil due to stringent environmental policies. Recent refinery closures, including those by Phillips 66 and Valero, will likely exacerbate price hikes. The reopening of Santa Ynez not only addresses this reliance on imports but also demonstrates a balanced approach to energy needs and environmental concerns, enhancing national energy security and economic stability.

Published: 8/18/2025