DW Energy Group sees record US oil output in 2026 supporting investment outlook
USO•The Energy Information Administration projects US crude production will average a record 13.9 million barrels daily in 2026, rising to 14.3 million in 2027. Permian output is forecast at 6.8 million barrels daily in 2026.
1. Production forecast
The Energy Information Administration projects US crude production will average 13.9 million barrels daily in 2026, up from 13.7 million in 2025, and reach 14.3 million in 2027. Permian production is forecast to average 6.8 million barrels daily in 2026, about 3% above 2025.
2. Drilling economics
Dallas Fed survey respondents said WTI prices averaging about $66 per barrel were needed for profitable new drilling; Permian firms required about $67. The brief says project economics, operator quality and geological risks remain central to investment selection.
