Overview of Energy Policy Actions by the Trump Administration
Since assuming office on January 20, 2025, President Donald J. Trump has implemented a series of significant policy changes aimed at enhancing the United States’ energy production capabilities. Over the course of several months, the administration has introduced more than 50 actions designed to revitalize the nation’s energy sector.
Key Actions in January 2025
- January 20: On his first day, President Trump signed approximately 200 executive orders, among which were key directives that addressed national energy priorities, such as:
- Declaring a national energy emergency
- Revoking the U.S. International Climate Finance Plan
- Instituting a moratorium on new wind and solar permits on federal lands
- Withdrawing from the Paris Agreement and canceling related financial commitments
- Rescinding various previous executive orders related to environmental regulations
- January 31: The Bureau of Land Management released leases for 17 oil and gas parcels in New Mexico, effective February 1.
February Developments
- February 3: Announced efforts to open federal lands and waters for energy production, including areas in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).
- February 14: Established the National Energy Dominance Council aimed at guiding energy policy.
- February 21: Issued waivers for the year-round sale of E15 gasoline.
- February 25: The Council on Environmental Quality removed NEPA-related regulations from federal codes.
March Initiatives
- March 5: Approved an LNG export permit extension for the Golden Pass LNG Terminal in Texas.
- March 12: Announced significant deregulation actions by the EPA to reduce compliance burdens on the energy sector.
- March 20: Signed an executive order to enhance American mineral production, ensuring access to critical resources.
April Actions and Regulatory Changes
- April 1: The Department of Energy removed barriers hindering LNG exports, streamlining the approval process.
- April 10: Eliminated the requirement for environmental impact statements on various oil and gas leases in Western states.
- April 24: At a London summit, administration officials criticized global climate initiatives that they believe hinder energy access.
Summation of Efforts
Through a series of ambitious executive orders and regulatory changes, the Trump administration has focused on accelerating energy production while reducing federal oversight. The objective of these actions aligns with the administration’s broader goal of achieving energy independence and enhancing the U.S. role within the global energy landscape.