Author's Note

This book is one of several background studies financed by the Energy Policy Project of the Ford Foundation. It is concerned with the extent of competition in the production of primary energy in the United States. The study was conducted during a time of unprecedented change in both domestic and world oil markets; the effects of such change can only be partially understood at this time.

The Energy Policy Project Staff provided valuable guidance during the course of the study. The study benefited immensely from the contribution of Walter Mead. Special studies were prepared by Thomas Hogarty, John Lichtblau, Edwin Mansfield, Thomas G. Moore, Reed Moyer, Lester Salamon, and John Sigfried. The authors of the special studies provided valuable insights into specific topics and were instrumental in the completion of this report. The special studies comprise the appendixes to this book.

The manuscript was substantially improved with the advice of a review committee and of a symposium held in June 1973. Many helpful comments were received. I especially want to acknowledge the comments provided by John Blair, Thomas Hogarty, Paul MacAvoy, Reed Moyer, John Siegfried, Milt Russell, and John W. Wilson. The contributions of John M. Ryan of Exxon Corporation and John Lichtblau of the Petroleum Industry Research Foundation provided important insights to many aspects of the industry.

A special debt of gratitude is owed to Sylvia K. Coupe for typing and proofreading of the manuscript.

While many contributed to this study, the author accepts full responsibility for the interpretations and conclusions contained in the book.

Thomas D. Duchesneau
University of Maine at Orono