Columbia Energy Exchange Reporters' Roundtable: What's Driving US Energy Policy News in 2026?
Jan 20, 2026
Maxine Joselow, a climate policy reporter for The New York Times, and Josh Siegel, an energy reporter for POLITICO, delve into crucial energy issues shaping 2026. They discuss the rising electricity prices and affordability struggles affecting voters, while assessing the geopolitical impact of U.S. interventions in Venezuela and Iran. The duo also tackles permitting reforms, legal battles over offshore wind, and the EPA's new approach to cost-benefit analysis. Their insights reveal how these factors intertwine with upcoming midterm elections.
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White House Pushes PJM Auction For Data Centers
- The White House pushed PJM to hold a 15-year emergency power auction to spur new generation for AI data centers.
- Josh Siegel says the move is symbolic and may not produce quick relief given permitting and construction timelines.
Low Oil Prices Enable Geopolitical Moves
- Low global oil prices gave the administration room to pursue interventions in producers like Venezuela and Iran.
- Maxine Joselow notes low prices reduce domestic political risk from such geopolitical moves.
Permitting Reform Is The Key Congressional Fight
- Permitting reform remains the central Capitol Hill flashpoint but talks stalled after the administration paused offshore wind projects.
- Josh Siegel says industry-wide pressure keeps the issue alive despite political obstacles.