Historically, Louisiana’s robust energy sector has been the driving force behind our state’s growth.
Throughout the 20th century, local communities emerged and expanded in population as energy discoveries and offshore drilling brought new jobs and investment opportunities. Louisiana energy helped to build our communities, fueling economic development and creating jobs while also funding vital infrastructure, coastal restoration, education, workforce development and community service initiatives.
Today, the energy industry continues to play a significant role in Louisiana communities, driving economies, shaping culture and sustaining employment. Over 300,000 Louisianans and their families make a living in the O&G industry.
Shell’s Norco facility has been a key employer in St. Charles Parish since the 1920s. Chevron’s Northpark facility has maintained a significant presence in Covington, providing hundreds of high-paying jobs. ExxonMobil’s Baton Rouge complex has been operating since the early 1900s and now supports thousands of direct and indirect jobs. These are not faceless corporations. In Louisiana, they are our neighbors who live and work among us every day.
Our state’s energy sector generates billions in severance, property and corporate income taxes that go directly to our communities, supporting schools, first responders and infrastructure needs. Energy companies also provide key contributions for Louisiana’s coastal restoration efforts, because no private entity is more invested in the health of our state’s coastline than the energy industry. Offshore drilling alone delivers millions each year to coastal parishes for essential projects like critical shoreline stabilization, marsh creation and artificial reef restoration.
Additionally, energy companies are committed to furthering educational and workforce development programs in our communities. Through partnerships with Louisiana colleges and community-led initiatives, their efforts are creating the next generation of energy innovators. Most importantly, they are developing opportunities that will help keep our kids right here in Louisiana.
Shell partners with the Louisiana Community and Technical College System to provide women students with training, mentorship and networking opportunities. Chevron is building future STEM leaders through FIRST Robotics, sponsoring student robotics teams, competitions and educational programs across the state. ExxonMobil, in partnership with Baton Rouge Community College, supports the North Baton Rouge Industrial Training Initiative, a free program providing Louisiana students with accelerated technical training and certifications in high-demand skilled trades.
In times of crisis, energy companies step up in a big way by providing fuel, essential resources and critical needs to affected communities. Each year, they donate millions and provide volunteer services for philanthropic endeavors, hurricane recovery and other disaster efforts. Beyond emergency response, these companies support more resilient Louisiana communities through charitable and environmental investments, like building hurricane-safe homes or restoring vital wetlands to better protect vulnerable coastal residents.
Our future success is dependent on the progress of our state’s energy sector, which is driven by investments and expansion projects supported by energy companies with roots that run deep in Louisiana. As long as our leaders and elected officials continue to support the industry, major energy companies will keep investing in Louisiana communities, helping to sustain our economy, infrastructure, environment and vibrant workforce for generations to come.
Energy is more than just an industry here — it’s a vital part of our identity and daily life. You can’t separate the energy sector from the communities it supports and represents; they are deeply connected. And when Louisiana energy prospers, Louisiana communities thrive.
For more information, visit lmoga.com or call (225) 387-3205.
