Energy Cooperation in the Western Hemisphere
Benefits and Impediments
Is there a model for Western Hemisphere energy cooperation? How would individual countries and the hemisphere as a whole benefit from cooperative understandings for hemispheric oil and natural gas? What are the impediments to creating cooperative agreements, and how can the region overcome them? What would be the consequences of not adopting a plan for energy cooperation in the Americas?
Energy Cooperation in the Western Hemisphere examines the state of energy cooperation among Western Hemisphere oil and natural gas producers and the opportunities for greater cooperation. The result of more than two years of extensive in-country research and interviews with key stakeholders including governments and major oil and gas interests, the study is distinguished by its comprehensive approach and detailed country-by-country analysis of current conditions and future projects. Sidney Weintraub and his coauthors examine the critical historical factors, technical challenges, dangerous conditions, and political tensions, divisions, and disagreements that have hampered hemispheric cooperation. The authors offer predictions and suggestions in hopes of stimulating dispassionate discussion in the countries themselves and contributing toward a more stable, energy-cooperative hemisphere.
Sidney Weintraub holds the William E. Simon Chair in Political Economy at CSIS. Annette Hester is an economist and a senior associate with the Simon Chair. Veronica R. Prado is a program officer with the Council of the Americas and a former fellow with the Simon Chair.