California lectures America about ‘sustainability’ — while running out of gas
California has stopped importing oil from the Middle East, marking a shift in its energy supply chain amid growing reliance on foreign and domestic alternatives. The state's limited pipeline infrastructure and decades of regulatory restrictions have increased its vulnerability to supply disruptions. Despite efforts to promote sustainability, California faces rising gas prices and shrinking refining capacity due to long-term policy decisions.
- ▪California is no longer importing crude oil from the Middle East, ending a long-standing supply chain from the Persian Gulf.
- ▪The state relies on imports from countries like Canada, Brazil, and Ecuador, as well as domestic sources, due to limited pipeline connections.
- ▪California has lost significant refining capacity, with closures of major refineries like Phillips 66’s LA facility and Valero’s Benicia plant.
- ▪Under Governor Gavin Newsom, oil well permitting dropped sharply, contributing to reduced in-state production.
- ▪The Trump administration suspended Jones Act requirements to allow foreign tankers to deliver oil to California, a move opposed by Democrats.
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Opinion California lectures America about ‘sustainability’ — while running out of gas By Richie Greenberg Published May 4, 2026, 4:16 p.m. ET The last oil tanker carrying crude from the Persian Gulf (Iraq) is unloading in Long Beach, California. This effectively marks the end of Middle East oil imports to the state, at least for now. We need to replace roughly 200,000 barrels per day. We are not running dry — not yet. California has petroleum stockpiles and can pivot to other sources like Brazil, Ecuador, Guyana, Canada, and increased U.S. domestic crude. 4 The last oil tanker carrying crude from the Persian Gulf (Iraq) is unloading in Long Beach, California. This effectively marks the end of Middle East oil imports to the state, at least for now.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at California Post.
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