POLITICO Energy
Inside Trump’s push to Make America Coal-powered Again
Apr 10, 2025
Catherine Morehouse, an energy reporter for POLITICO, delves into President Trump's recent executive orders aimed at revitalizing the struggling coal industry. They discuss the government's push for new coal production and plant preservation, despite the industry's decline in favor of cleaner energy sources like natural gas and solar. Morehouse also highlights the optimism within the coal sector as it adapts to shifting policies, alongside the critical implications of canceling significant climate change research funding.
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Quick takeaways
- President Trump's executive orders aim to revive the coal industry by eliminating mining barriers and supporting existing coal plants.
- Despite governmental backing, the coal industry's long-term decline continues due to market trends favoring cleaner energy solutions like natural gas and renewables.
Deep dives
Reviving the Coal Industry
The recent executive orders signed by President Trump aim to revive the coal industry by removing barriers to mining and promoting coal production. These orders include designating coal as a mineral, which opens up additional opportunities for leasing public lands and encourages the retention of existing coal plants. By directing the Department of Energy to utilize emergency powers, the administration seeks to prevent the shutdown of coal plants that are deemed vital for grid reliability. This focus appears to stem from Trump's long-standing support for coal as part of his broader fossil fuel agenda, despite the industry's significant decline over the past two decades.
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