The global mismatch between energy demand and available supply has put upward pressure on fuel prices, impacting U.S. consumers everywhere from the gas pump to the supermarket.

In the U.S., petroleum demand returned to pre-pandemic levels in late 2021 and has remained near the top of the five-year range, even as inflation remains high.

Despite the need for more energy, Washington has introduced numerous policies that constrain natural gas and oil production and may discourage investment, such as pausing federal leasing and canceling pipeline infrastructure.

As the editorial board recently pointed out (Uncertainty around prices proves we need more drilling, refineries, Dec. 12), “major parts of the solution are clear: The U.S. needs more domestic drilling.”

To boost supply, though, we need smartly crafted policies that encourage investment in energy production and infrastructure build-out. A recent study found that enabling the construction of previously canceled and currently stalled pipeline projects could support additional supply from the Appalachia region to key U.S. Northeast and Southeast markets.

Predictable regulations, efficient permitting and policies that support an all-of-the-above energy strategy, as outlined in the American Petroleum Institute’s ten-point policy plan, are critical to unleashing American energy. These solutions offer a way producers can supply more U.S. energy to consumers here at home and to our allies abroad.

Solving the growing energy crisis and ensuring consumers have access to reliable, affordable energy starts with policies that strengthen U.S. energy development, not hinder it.

Stephanie Catarino Wissman is the executive director of the American Petroleum Institute Pennsylvania.