The state’s economic diversification group, or ENDOW, has submitted its first report to Governor Mead and the state legislature. It attempts to establish a baseline on the status of Wyoming's economy. The report outlines workforce data, state-by-state comparisons, and trends in different sectors.
It offers an especially interesting view of Wyoming’s energy sector. Just five years ago, the energy industry in Wyoming looked very different. Wind production continues to cost less, with demand for it only rising; natural gas is pushing down coal prices; and horizontal drilling is now a serious option in new areas of the state.
Rob Godby, energy economist at the University of Wyoming, said the information isn’t new, but it is helpful in putting legislators on the same page.
“Because just a few years ago, conditions were very different,” said Godby, “and if some people aren’t aware of the changes that occurred and they presume they’re still up to date, clearly, that’s where mistakes can be made in... assessment of policy options.”
