You Won’t Believe What These Energy Citizens Experienced Inside the Capitol

Energy advocates from across the country gathered in Washington, D.C. for the American Petroleum Institute’s 2026 State of American Energy (SOAE), and Energy Citizens played a standout role alongside industry leaders and policymakers in discussions about the future of affordable, reliable U.S. energy.

Energy Citizens, a grassroots network supported by API, helps everyday people share their real‑world experiences with policymakers, ensuring their voices are part of the national energy conversation.

For this year’s SOAE, Energy Citizens Carol, William, Roger, and Gary traveled to Washington, D.C. from New Mexico, Pennsylvania, Colorado, and Ohio. The group was able to tour the U.S. Capitol complex, walking the same halls where energy policy decisions are made.

*Energy Citizens at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., during their trip for the State of American Energy.*

For several of the Energy Citizens, the trip marked a deeply personal milestone. “This is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime opportunity for me. I am so grateful to be here supporting the industry that gave me my livelihood,” said William. “I don’t have a bucket list, but if I did, this would be on it. Being here standing for what we stand for — that’s really special.”

Inside the program, industry leaders outlined the pressures shaping the nation’s energy future, from workforce needs to the growing demand for reliable fuels.

Roger, experiencing Washington policymaking up close for the first time, described a similar sense of awe.

“I cannot believe I am standing here right now. This is truly a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience,” he said.

*From left to right: Gary, Roger, Carol, and William pose for a photo at the State of American Energy*

The Energy Citizens were also among the first invited to test a new virtual‑reality experience that walked through the evolution of American energy. The feature offers users an immersive look at the industry’s workforce, technology, and infrastructure.

*Guests at the State of American Energy had a chance to try out a virtual reality experience that walked through the evolution of American energy.*

For Carol, William, Roger, and Gary, the trip was both an inside look at national energy policy and a rare chance to represent the communities most directly affected by those decisions.