President Trump launches energy freedom agenda

President Donald Trump signalled a major shift in US energy policy on his first day in office, declaring a “national energy emergency” seeking to accelerate energy and minerals development, focus on energy security and tackle price inflation.

These measures pursue a global “energy freedom” agenda that prioritises reliable and affordable energy by removing barriers to investment and production. Such a strategy will enhance global living standards and reduce the risk of price shocks. I believe it will also create a robust foundation for continued emissions cuts, despite withdrawing from the UN Paris Climate Accord. 

President Trump’s energy freedom agenda will not only help address domestic energy needs but elevate millions out of poverty and reduce energy inequality around the world. Contrary to the single-minded “net zero by 2050” approach, which demands immediate CO2 reductions at all costs, this agenda acknowledges other pressing global issues – chiefly the 700 million people without access to modern energy and the billions needing more energy to improve health, education, and connectivity. Some advanced economies may race through their energy transitions, but for much of the world, access to reliable, affordable energy is a first, urgent priority. 

Here are five key policy initiatives that will cement America’s global energy leadership: 

1. Lift the LNG pause

Former US President Joe Biden’s suspension of new liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects was a mistake unsupported by science. Globally, coal burning reached a record high in 2024. Transitioning power generation from coal to natural gas is a climate win, as burning natural gas emits roughly half the CO2 of coal. 

A McKinsey study showed that in the US, coal-to-gas switching by utilities avoided the emission of 500 million tons of CO2 over 15 years – more than all wind and solar installations combined during the same period. Without American natural gas, countries reliant on imports face higher energy costs and are more likely to resort to coal. Revitalising LNG exports is central to a broader “America First” strategy, particularly in energy-hungry regions like Asia. 

2. Strengthen relations with Saudi Arabia and Gulf energy allies

A stronger partnership with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations would bolster global energy security and market stability. Together, the US and GCC countries are energy superpowers with shared interests in reducing market volatility and ensuring diverse energy supplies. Renewed collaboration can mitigate supply shocks and enhance geopolitical ties, aligning energy policy with broader strategic goals.  The Trump administration should increase robust participation in the International Energy Forum (IEF) to drive stronger collaboration on realistic energy and transition initiatives.

3. Lead the fight against energy poverty in Africa

Ending energy poverty by 2030 should be a US foreign policy priority. Today, Heathrow Airport in London consumes more energy than the entire country of Sierra Leone. Reliable, affordable energy is vital for health, education, employment, and the digital economy.Alarmingly, even the least ambitious net zero scenario by the International Energy Agency assumes Africa’s per capita energy consumption will decline by 2050. This is unacceptable. Africans should not be expected to remain in the dark to facilitate global net zero goals.The new administration should advocate lifting bans by the World Bank and IMF on financing fossil fuel projects in developing nations. Hosting a US-Africa Energy and Economic Development Summit would allow African nations to define energy scenarios aligned with their development needs. This initiative would also create lucrative markets for US companies. 

4. Prioritise transformational energy technologies

The transition away from fossil fuels will take longer than expected due to their integral role in industries like aviation, cement, plastics, and fertilisers. Phasing out hydrocarbons prematurely, without viable alternatives, is unrealistic. 

Wind and solar can achieve half of net zero goals, but the other half requires technologies still in development. Scaling up decarbonisation of existing energy systems – reducing methane leaks, electrifying oil and gas production, and advancing carbon capture – should be immediate priorities. 

The government must also invest in breakthrough innovations like nuclear fusion, direct air capture, and low-carbon hydrogen. These technologies could define the clean energy landscape, with America positioned as a leader. The Inflation Reduction Act will likely be amended to emphasise underfunded areas like transmission networks, carbon capture and nuclear while focusing on life-cycle sustainability for vehicles. For instance, hybrid engines, which require less copper than electric vehicles, could play a vital role in balancing environmental and resource considerations. 

5. Revitalise investment in hydrocarbons and mining

Investment shortfalls in hydrocarbons and critical minerals have led to price volatility, undermining public confidence in the energy transition. 

The new administration has signalled to investors that responsible investments in hydrocarbons and mining are essential. Enhanced investment would support development in the Global South, alleviate energy poverty, and create a smoother pathway to sustainable energy systems.