Five energy policy priorities for the Trump Administration

In his first 100 days in office, US President Donald Trump and Energy Secretary Chris Wright should pursue a global “energy freedom” agenda that prioritises affordable, accessible energy by removing barriers to investment and production. Such a strategy would enhance global living standards and reduce the risk of price shocks, while creating a robust foundation for tackling climate change. 

A global energy freedom agenda would elevate millions of lives and address energy inequality. 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. Advanced economies may race through their energy transitions, but for much of the world, access to reliable energy is a first, urgent priority. 

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

1. Lift the LNG pause

President 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 2023. 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 should be central to a broader "America First" strategy, particularly in energy-hungry regions like Asia.

2. Strengthen relations with Gulf energy allies

A stronger partnership with 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. 

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 should be amended to emphasise underfunded technologies like 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

Current policies risk triggering not only an energy crisis but a mineral supply crisis that could stall the transition. Investment shortfalls in hydrocarbons and critical minerals have led to price volatility, undermining public confidence in the energy transition. 

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

A path forward 

Global energy leadership demands balancing the dual imperatives of affordability and sustainability. While advancing the energy transition is crucial, it cannot come at the expense of billions without basic access to modern energy. By lifting barriers to energy investment, strengthening alliances, and championing innovation, the next administration can ensure America leads the way in solving the energy and climate challenges of our time. 

• Joseph McMonigle is the President and CEO of the Global Center for Energy Analysis, a Washington-based think tank, and former Secretary General of the International Energy Forum.