Conference in Columbia focuses on offshore energy

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The head of the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management is visiting Columbia for a forum on energy development off the South Carolina coast.

Bureau Director Abigail Ross Hopper speaks Tuesday at an event sponsored by the non-partisan Consumer Energy Alliance.

The bureau reviews offshore energy resources and reviews plans for development of oil and natural gas as well as renewable energy such as wind power.

Business people and conservationists are also appearing at the forum to discuss the impact of offshore energy development on the environment and the state’s economy.

Almost two dozen coastal communities have passed resolutions opposing fossil fuel development. Supporters of such development say it can be done safely and will mean jobs and tax revenue for the state.