The U.S. Interior Department announced a series of orders to advance former President Donald Trump's energy agenda, prioritizing domestic energy and mineral production while cutting regulations. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, on his first day in office, signed six orders to accelerate energy project permitting and roll back environmental protections deemed restrictive.
Burgum’s actions mark a significant policy shift from the Biden administration, which had focused on slowing fossil fuel development on public lands while promoting renewable energy. Under the new directives, agency staff will identify emergency and legal authorities to fast-track projects and eliminate regulations, reviewing Biden-era policies like the Inflation Reduction Act and Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The agency plans to repeal at least ten regulations for every new one introduced.
One key order revokes Biden’s withdrawal of federal waters from offshore oil and gas development, reopening areas for drilling. Another aims to expand resource extraction in Alaska. With millions of acres under its control, the Interior Department manages oil and gas leases that account for about a quarter of U.S. production.
Burgum emphasized that these changes will bolster U.S. energy dominance and economic growth, making energy more affordable while showcasing American innovation. The move aligns with Trump’s broader push to deregulate the energy sector and maximize resource utilization.
By reversing restrictions and streamlining approvals, the administration aims to accelerate drilling and mining, reinforcing the U.S. as a global energy powerhouse. The policy shift is expected to spark debate over environmental concerns and long-term energy sustainability.