Louisiana at a Crossroads: Why the Carbon Capture Debate Could Define the State’s Economic Future
Louisiana faces a massive economic opportunity—or a massive economic loss. Tim Johnson of the TJC Group delivered that warning while outlining the growing divide over carbon capture and sequestration (CCUS) and the surge of outside money shaping the fight.
Johnson revealed a staggering trend. Nearly $50 million has flowed into Louisiana in 18 months from national anti-industry groups. He argues that many local opponents mean well, but their messages mirror national organizations funded by George Soros and Michael Bloomberg. Johnson says these donors share one goal: shut down petrochemical, oil, gas, and refining industries.
For Louisiana, CCUS is more than environmental policy. Johnson frames it as a battle for jobs, investment, and competitiveness. More than $70 billion in industrial expansion now depends on companies meeting global demand for lower-carbon products. Without CCUS, he warns that this boom may shift to Texas, Mississippi, or even China.
Johnson also challenged common scare tactics. Claims about eminent domain abuses or lakes “bubbling up” ignore decades of science and practice. Industry has used enhanced oil recovery and carbon storage safely for over 40 years across thousands of wells.
He believes Louisiana holds a rare chance to reshape its economy and reduce poverty. But he fears misinformation may push investment elsewhere.
“If we don’t act,” he said, “Louisianans may be buying tickets to watch Texas get it right.”