Energy policy and economic development policy are closely connected. When considering where to locate or expand operations, businesses take into account whether a location offers a long-term, affordable, and secure energy supply with the infrastructure capacity necessary to meet their energy needs. To ensure the success of the Mississippi’s energy-related economic development efforts, effective policies and activities must be concentrated on:

• Reinforcing Mississippi’s energy strengths

• Ensuring an affordable and reliable energy supply

• Encouraging energy efficiency and energy supply diversity

• Enhancing growth in technological energy-related core competencies

• Filling any identified gaps in assets, infrastructure, and resources needed to ensure future growth

• Increasing supply of skilled workforce needed in a high-tech economy