Why doesn't America build more refineries to lower the cost of gas?

Answer 1

The US has not seen a new refinery in over 25 years. Present-day refineries are at the peak of their capacity. While the supply of gasoline is becoming harder to come by, the demand for our black gold addiction is growing exponentially.

Skeptics would argue that refineries are not profitable. Ask yourself, when has anything associated with the production or supply of the commodity of oil not been profitable? Obviously, that can be adjusted accordingly. But lets face it, it has nothing to do with $... it has to do with obstacles. Most notably the never-ending fight with environmentalists. From the planning, construction, execution, and realization, the green-light for refineries never gets the "GO" ahead.

In 1976, Garyville, Louisiana saw jobs. However, that would be the last refinery built in the US. It was at this point that environmentalist launched all-out-war on refineries, blocking a proposed refinery near Portsmouth, Virginia...Who wants to battle in courts for nine years? My answer... No refineries in the US. Yes, as long as we do not see the refineries, then we cannot see the pollution. As long as we send the profits else where, we are not tempted to spend. Are you kidding me... Wake-Up! we can create more refineries here with a push toward alternative fuel. Yes, my friends we can have the best of both worlds. Did the Environmentalist handbook foresee the problems in the Middle East and the devastation it will have around the would in terms of fuel? Of course not, because they can't see past the steering wheel of their minivan. Let's take back America today!