include the industry in energy transition, says chevron CEO

The oil and gas industry should be included in energy transition discussions since its expertise can be leveraged to build a new system, says Chevron’s top executive.

Mike Wirth, the company’s Chairman and CEO, said during the recent American Energy Security Summit that the sector is rife with top-tier talent that can help lead the way.

“This industry has the best engineers, project managers, technical capabilities, balance sheets and human capacity to do just about anything,” Wirth told CNBC’s Brian Sullivan.

Wirth isn’t alone in his thinking. According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Global Energy Institute, the nation needs a mix of fuel sources to maintain affordable and reliable supplies.

Rather than disrupt energy diversity, policymakers should focus on how to maintain it, the institute said.

Wirth expressed his hope that oil and gas would be included in energy policy and strategy, saying they could contribute to progress.

He emphasized the importance of having dialogues with different perspectives, as he said they would help build understanding and consensus for the future.

“We’re businesspeople. We’re Americans. We’re patriots, and we want our country to be strong, secure and viable,” Wirth said.

Wirth’s comments were made in front of a live audience during the American Energy Security Summit, which featured traditional energy companies who are focused on a lower carbon future.

While gesturing to the audience, Wirth said such industry professionals have dedicated their careers to energy progress, and their contributions should continue.

“They’ve built out an energy system that provides heat, light, mobility and all the things that are required — and are doing it in a way that has less impact on the environment,” Wirth said. “That’s what we’ve always done and is what this industry will continue to do.”