Oil and Gas in Ventura County
Ventura County is one of California's historic oil-producing regions. Fields in the Ventura Basin, the Oxnard Plain, and offshore in the Santa Barbara Channel have produced oil and natural gas for more than a century. While Thousand Oaks itself is primarily residential and commercial, the broader county's energy heritage influences local jobs, infrastructure, and public policy.
Today, Thousand Oaks residents interact with the oil and gas industry every day, from filling up at neighborhood gas stations to heating homes and cooking with natural gas. At the same time, California is pursuing an ambitious transition toward cleaner energy, and many traditional energy companies are investing in carbon management, renewable fuels, and lower-emission technologies.
Segments of the Oil and Gas Industry
The industry includes upstream producers that extract oil and gas, midstream companies that transport and store it, downstream refiners and fuel marketers, and natural gas utilities that deliver gas to homes and businesses. Each segment plays a distinct role in the energy supply that reaches the Conejo Valley.
The Top 10 Oil and Gas Companies
1. Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas)
SoCalGas is the natural gas utility serving Thousand Oaks and much of Southern California. It delivers gas for heating, water heating, and cooking, and is investing in pipeline safety, renewable natural gas, and hydrogen research as part of California's energy transition.
2. California Resources Corporation
California Resources Corporation is one of the largest oil and gas producers in the state. Following its combination with Aera Energy, it holds substantial California operations and has launched carbon capture and storage initiatives aimed at reducing emissions.
3. Chevron
Chevron is one of the world's largest integrated energy companies and has deep roots in California. It operates major refineries in the state and supplies fuel to Chevron and Texaco stations throughout Thousand Oaks, while also investing in renewable fuels and lower-carbon technologies.
4. DCOR
DCOR is an independent operator with offshore platforms in the Santa Barbara Channel and onshore operations in Ventura County. It represents the long-standing local presence of oil and gas production in the region.
5. Sentinel Peak Resources
Sentinel Peak Resources is a California-focused oil and gas producer with operations in several historic fields, including assets in Southern California. It is part of the independent producer community that sustains in-state energy production.
6. Phillips 66
Phillips 66 operates refining and marketing businesses and supplies fuel to stations under the Phillips 66, 76, and Conoco brands. Its 76 stations are a familiar presence across Southern California, and the company has converted a California refinery to produce renewable fuels.
7. Valero
Valero is a leading independent refiner with California refineries and a significant renewable diesel business. It supplies fuels to retail stations and commercial customers across the region.
8. Marathon Petroleum
Marathon Petroleum operates one of the largest refineries on the West Coast and supplies fuel to Arco and other branded stations. Many Thousand Oaks drivers fill up at Arco locations supported by its supply network.
9. Shell
Shell is a global energy company with a strong retail fuel presence in Southern California. Shell stations in Thousand Oaks offer fuel, convenience retail, and in some locations electric vehicle charging through the company's expanding charging network.
10. ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil is one of the world's largest energy companies, with fuel and lubricant brands available throughout the region, including Mobil products used by automotive service centers. It is also investing in carbon capture and lower-emission solutions.
Industry Trends in California
California's oil and gas industry is undergoing major change. State policies are gradually reducing in-state oil production, while refiners convert facilities to renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel. Carbon capture and storage projects are advancing in the Central Valley. Natural gas utilities are focusing on safety, renewable natural gas, and supporting customers as electrification increases. Fuel prices remain a key concern for Conejo Valley drivers.
What This Means for Thousand Oaks Residents
Residents can expect continued investments in cleaner fuels, expanded electric vehicle charging at fuel stations, and evolving natural gas programs. Homeowners considering appliance upgrades may explore electric alternatives, while businesses that rely on fleets should monitor fuel trends and alternative fuel options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is oil still produced in Ventura County? Yes. Ventura County continues to have active onshore and offshore oil and gas production, though output has declined over time.
Why are California fuel prices higher than other states? Factors include special clean-burning fuel blends, state taxes and environmental programs, and limited refining capacity.
Who supplies natural gas to Thousand Oaks homes? SoCalGas delivers natural gas to residential and commercial customers in the city.
Final Thoughts
Oil and gas companies remain an important part of the energy landscape in Thousand Oaks and Ventura County, even as the region transitions toward cleaner energy. The companies above produce, refine, and deliver the fuels residents rely on today. Operations and programs change over time, so check directly with each company for current information.