Virginia’s two US senators, Democrats Mark R. Warner and Timothy M. Kaine, introduced legislation that would revise the US Bureau of Ocean Energy Management’s 2012-17 Outer Continental Shelf program by restoring to the schedule a lease sale off the state’s coast.

The US House approved Rep. Lee Terry’s (R-Neb.) bill to bypass the White House and congressionally authorize construction of the Keystone XL crude oil pipeline’s northern segment by 241 to 175 votes on May 22.

European officials and industry leaders have taken steps toward reviving energy-market reform and setting long-term targets for renewable energy.

Qatar Petroleum International (QPI) agreed to acquire a 15% stake in Total E&P Congo, stating this reinforces its commitment to invest in Africa.

Oil prices fell with front-month crude down 0.6% in the New York futures market May 21 as the US dollar rallied in expectation the Federal Reserve Bank would maintain current efforts to stimulate the national economy.

The US Environmental Protection Agency proposed standards to reduce vehicle emissions and sulfur content in gasoline beginning in 2017. Comments on the so-called Tier 3 requirements will be accepted until June 13, EPA said on May 21.

Oil and gas production from tight shale formations clearly is a long-term phenomenon and not a short-term trend, Deloitte LLP officials told reporters. The financial services company found growing confidence in unconventional energy resources in a survey it conducted last year, said John England, a vice-chairman and leader of its oil and gas practice.