Trump Declares National Energy Emergency to Unleash Domestic Production
President Donald Trump has announced his intention to declare a national energy emergency as he initiates steps to boost domestic energy production and dismantle Biden-era policies aimed at combating climate change.
Reorienting US Energy Policy
The declaration is part of a series of changes that Trump intends to implement to redirect US policy away from the fight against global warming and towards fossil fuel production. This includes repealing Biden-era regulations mandating increased sales of electric vehicles, which Trump has labeled an "EV mandate."
Attacking Fossil Fuel Restrictions
In his inaugural address, Trump pledged to end the "green new deal" and the electric-vehicle mandate. Additionally, he has singled out wind power for adverse treatment, stating that his "energy policies will end leasing to massive wind farms."
Boosting Natural Resource Production
Trump plans to issue an executive order specifically targeting natural resource production in Alaska, which possesses abundant oil, gas, and critical minerals. The Biden administration had imposed restrictions on energy development in the state, including on federal lands designated for oil production nearly a century ago.
National Emergency Declaration
Trump's national energy emergency declaration will be based on the assertion that high energy costs are unnecessary and a result of Washington policy decisions. The declaration will grant Trump access to as many as 150 special powers typically reserved for emergencies such as hurricanes and terrorist attacks.
Climate Change Shift
Trump's actions signify a dramatic shift in energy and environmental policy in Washington. Environmentalists have long urged Biden to declare a climate emergency but to use it to halt oil exports and reduce domestic oil flows.
Rollback of Biden-Era Policies
According to sources, Trump plans to authorize new oil and gas development on federal lands while rolling back Biden-era climate regulations. Additionally, he will target government incentives for EVs and ease restrictions on vehicle pollution and fuel economy.
Withdrawal from Paris Agreement
Trump will once again withdraw the US from the Paris Agreement, a 2015 pact under which the US and nearly 200 other nations agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Reversal of BLM Withdrawal
Trump intends to overturn Biden's decision to withdraw approximately 625 million acres of US waters from oil and gas leasing. The legality of this reversal will likely be disputed in federal courts.