The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has released the 2026 National Assessment of Undiscovered Oil and Gas Resources, an estimate of the undiscovered, technically and economically recoverable oil and natural gas resources outside of known oil and gas fields on the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf. The National Assessment, published every five years, represents BOEM's current understanding of the distribution of undiscovered oil and gas resources on the OCS, and helps unleash American energy by identifying opportunities for additional oil and gas exploration and development on the OCS - supporting economic prosperity and energy security.
Using a play-based assessment methodology, the National Assessment estimates a mean Undiscovered Technically Recoverable Resource of 65.80 billion barrels of oil and 218.43 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in the Outer Continental Shelf. Based on current production trends, these undiscovered resources represent the potential for 100 or more years of energy production from the shelf, supporting lower energy costs and job creation.
'The Outer Continental Shelf holds tremendous resource potential,' said BOEM Acting Director Matt Giacona. 'This report provides the foundation for decisions that will ensure affordable energy and robust energy security for generations of Americans.'
The findings are derived from analyzing each geologic play across the Outer Continental Shelf and assigning a probability for the existence of undiscovered oil and gas resources for individual plays. Play results are then aggregated up to regional results and ultimately, a total Outer Continental Shelf estimate. Any changes from previous assessments reflect additional data and information acquired up to the data cutoff of Jan. 1, 2024.
The 2026 National Assessment represents a comprehensive appraisal through rigorous analysis of the best scientific data and information available and builds upon previous Outer Continental Shelf resource assessments. It is a critical tool for shaping the nation’s energy future—providing the data and insights needed to guide responsible development and ensure that America remains a global energy leader.
For more information, see BOEM’s website.
Source: BOEM
