Investigates critical policy issues for the Secretary of Natural Resources. These include issues that require short turnaround and have not been addressed before, as well as extensive longer term projects of a technical engineering or economic nature. Analyzes diverse subjects and issue areas dealing with the technology of petroleum refining, natural gas processing, drilling activities, oil and gas production, compressed natural gas vehicle fuel, electric power generation, electrical generation, alternate fuels, petrochemicals, and hydrocarbon fuel and feedstock use. Develops and distributes technical information and reports for key decision makers and the public. Publishes data on Louisiana energy development and production.
Issues reports on generation, refining, and other energy topics of specific interest to Louisiana.
DNR's Energy Section Supervisor Paula Ridgeway leads the department's Energy section. This office is designated as the official State Energy Office of Louisiana. This means the section is responsible for coordinating all federal programs and legislation related to energy conservation, energy standards, and energy alternatives. Ridgeway's section currently maintains and manages two grants from the U.S. Department of Energy. Ridgeway has worked for DNR for 14 years and has held her current position for one year.