POLITICO Energy What DOE Secretary Wright thinks about your rising power bill
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Aug 19, 2025 Energy Secretary Chris Wright expresses concerns over rising electricity prices and their potential impact on Republicans in upcoming midterm elections. He highlights the blame game surrounding these costs and discusses the complexities of renewable energy policies. The conversation delves into Iowa's growing wind and solar investments amidst political tensions and landowner resistance. Additionally, 19 states have challenged the Energy Department's new funding restrictions for clean energy initiatives, arguing it threatens vital programs.
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Administration Sees Power Prices As Political Risk
- Chris Wright openly acknowledged rising electricity prices are a political problem for the administration.
- He framed solutions as extending coal life, building more nuclear, and keeping natural gas central to the grid.
Ames Lab Visit Framed By August Recess And Campaigning
- Josh Siegel followed Wright to Ames National Lab during August recess as part of reporting on Iowa's wind economy.
- The trip paired DOE outreach with local campaign activity hosted by Representative Miller-Meeks.
AI And Data Centers Are Driving Electricity Demand
- Wright acknowledged rising demand from AI and data centers as a driver of electricity needs.
- He argued that response requires keeping coal, expanding nuclear, and relying on natural gas for baseload and flexibility.