Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

US energy boom creates record surplus

Production from renewables & shale oil soars

By Farms.com

The US is experiencing a surge in energy production, driven by growth in both shale oil and renewable sources like wind and solar. This has resulted in the nation's highest ever energy surplus, exceeding consumption by a significant margin.

While the US isn't completely energy independent due to reliance on specific crude imports, it has achieved a remarkable level of self-sufficiency. This trend began under the Trump administration with the shale oil boom and continued under the current administration.

The surplus reached a record 9 quadrillion British thermal units in 2023, with total energy production reaching nearly 103 quadrillion BTU. However, the future of this surplus is uncertain.

Tax incentives could accelerate renewable energy adoption, while investor pressure might slow shale oil growth. Additionally, rising demand from data centers fueled by the AI boom could erode the surplus.

The future of US energy policy and how the nation will meet its growing needs remains an important topic for discussion.


Trending Video

CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

Video: CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.