April 30, 2024 by Dr. Sakharov
Looking at a map of Oklahoma's oil and gas wells, it's clear this industry is vital to the state's economy. It provides jobs, tax revenue, and fuels much of the activity. But there's a catch: oil prices have a boom-and-bust history, and what's high today could plummet tomorrow, as past crashes in the 1980s and 2014 showed.
Oil prices, like clockwork (well, not exactly clockwork 😁), tend to take a nosedive every seven to ten years. Remember the rough patch right before COVID19? Yeah, that was one of those dips. Oil producers are already strategizing for the next one, but with all the political stuff going on, high prices might stick around a bit longer than usual.
This dependence leaves Oklahoma vulnerable. When oil prices fall, the energy sector suffers, and the ripple effect hits small and medium businesses that rely on oil and gas companies or consumer spending from industry workers. Less investment and layoffs shrink the market for everyone.
To ensure a more stable future, Oklahoma needs to expand its energy portfolio by embracing critical mineral extraction. Particularly iodine, with its steady and constantly rising demand, offers a compelling solution. Oklahoma has potential iodine deposits, and this industry could share existing infrastructure and expertise with the oil and gas sector, creating a powerful synergy.
Here's the exciting part: Oklahoma's oil and gas producers are perfectly positioned to lead the way. By forming joint ventures for iodine extraction, they could leverage their experience and resources. This win-win situation strengthens businesses and secures Oklahoma's economic future, regardless of the oil price cycle. Let's work together to make it happen!
Call to Action:
In the coming weeks, my team will be reaching out to Oklahoma oil and gas producers to discuss this opportunity. However, this is a two-way street! We're eager to hear from any producers interested in learning more about iodine extraction and the potential for collaboration. Feel free to contact me personally to discuss this further. Together, we can shape a future where Oklahoma thrives!