Oklahoma Can Cash in on California Electricity Crisis, Senate Leader Urges Economic Development Campaign

Oklahoma can cash in on the ongoing electricity crisis in California by launching a concerted effort to lure power-starved industries to the Sooner State, according to the leader of the Oklahoma State Senate.

Senate President Pro Tempore Stratton Taylor is asking the State Department of Commerce to target California-based industries with an extensive marketing effort extolling Oklahoma's many attributes, namely its inexpensive and plentiful energy supply.

"This is a great opportunity for us to showcase Oklahoma. We have abundant and affordable electricity, water and land; a more productive workforce; a lower cost of living; a prime location in the central U.S. and a better quality of life. For industries in California that are wondering whether or not they're going to have power from day to day, those should be some pretty strong selling points," said Senator Taylor.

In a letter to Department of Commerce director Ron Bussert, Sen. Taylor asked that the agency put forth a concerted effort in California over the next year as that state continues to deal with power shortages and rising electric prices.

"We have a great story to tell those California businesses that are seeking to expand or relocate. Not only is our electricity more reliable, it's significantly cheaper. A year ago, that might not have swayed many decision makers, but today, it's a tremendous marketing tool," said Sen. Taylor.