Trump to Declare 'National Energy Emergency' to Expand Fossil Fuels and Energy Projects
- Energy Insider Editorial Team
- Jan 20
- 1 min read
President Donald Trump has announced plans to declare a national energy emergency to enhance U.S. oil and gas production while reducing energy costs for American consumers. This initiative is part of a larger strategy to strengthen domestic energy industries and counter prior efforts to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles.
Trump highlighted America’s unmatched oil and gas reserves and pledged to use these resources to revitalize the nation’s manufacturing sector. While his predecessor, Joe Biden, oversaw record energy production amid global market challenges, Trump criticized the focus on shifting away from fossil fuels.
Under the emergency declaration, Trump could relax environmental regulations on power plants, expedite permits for energy infrastructure, and open federal lands for industrial and energy development. Additionally, he announced plans to revoke what he referred to as an "electric vehicle mandate," claiming this would protect the U.S. automotive sector.
The growing energy demands of artificial intelligence and data centers were also flagged as a priority, with Trump citing the need to ensure the power supply aligns with national technological advancements.
Trump committed to refilling the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to its maximum capacity, following significant drawdowns under the previous administration to stabilize fuel prices. Further initiatives include expanding resource development in Alaska, leveraging the state's oil, gas, and critical minerals, while rolling back policies targeting gas-powered appliances.
These actions underscore Trump’s commitment to energy independence, prioritizing traditional energy resources while asserting U.S. dominance in global energy markets.
