2026 News
Center releases Report on Potential Workforce Implications of the Geothermal Industry Across the United States
Posted April 1, 2026
A new report from the LSU Center for Energy Studies, in collaboration with the Colorado School of Mines, examines the potential economic implications of a large-scale geothermal energy buildout in the United States. The research was funded by Third Way.
Using scenario-based projections through 2050, the analysis estimates associated investment and economic activity based on the modeling framework described in the report.
The study evaluates three development scenarios, with installed geothermal capacity projected to reach between 10 and 36 gigawatts by 2050 and capital expenditures ranging from approximately $20 billion to $139 billion (2025 dollars). Construction activity is estimated to support between 7,400 and 39,400 jobs annually over the next decade, while ongoing operations support between 6,500 and 24,200 jobs nationwide each year once the buildout is completed.
Read the report here.
Center releases Report on Economic Impacts of Carbon Capture and Sequestration Projects for Louisiana
Posted March 11, 2026
A new report from the LSU Center for Energy Studies presents estimates of the potential economic activity associated with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) projects in Louisiana. Using publicly announced projects and associated infrastructure requirements, the analysis compiles investment, employment, and output estimates based on the modeling framework described in the report.
The analysis identifies 13 announced projects with a carbon capture component with investments totaling approximately $48 billion. In addition, the study identifies 33 existing facilities as practically feasible for CO₂ capture that currently employ approximately 4,200 workers. The report also estimates the pipeline infrastructure and Class VI sequestration wells required to sequester approximately 46 million metric tons of CO₂ per year from these announced and existing facilities.
Dr. Gregory Upton Shares 2026 Gulf Coast Energy Outlook at SOWELA
LSU Center for Energy Studies Executive Director Gregory Upton recently spoke to the Gulf Coast Industrial Group at SOWELA Technical Community College in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Upton’s presentation focused on the 2026 Gulf Coast Energy Outlook, providing an in-depth assessment of market trends, policy developments, and economic factors shaping Louisiana’s energy landscape. The discussion brought together regional industry leaders and workforce partners to examine both the challenges and emerging opportunities facing the state’s energy sector.
The event created a valuable forum for collaboration and perspective-sharing at a pivotal time for Gulf Coast energy development.
The Center extends its appreciation to SOWELA and the Gulf Coast Industrial Group for the invitation and for their continued leadership in fostering meaningful dialogue about the region’s energy future.
Energy Fundamentals 2026 is now accepting applications
We are pleased to announce the 2026 dates for the Energy Fundamentals Course, a learning
opportunity covering the energy landscape for Louisiana and the Gulf Coast. We’re
offering two one-week sessions to choose from, bringing together early career professionals,
teachers, and government workers for engaging and collaborative learning this summer.
📅 Session 1: June 22–26, 2026
📅 Session 2: July 13–17, 2026
Learn more about this exciting opportunity!