The United States President has issued an executive order focused on increasing domestic coal production, amending previous policies to grant it a higher priority. The order emphasizes the importance of coal for "economic prosperity and national security," underscoring coal's critical role in supporting both traditional industries and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Under the new directive, coal is designated as a "mineral" by the Chair of the National Energy Dominance Council, granting it significant benefits under existing orders aimed at boosting mineral production. The order mandates a comprehensive assessment of coal resources on federal lands to identify potential barriers and establish policies to facilitate their mining. Federal agencies are instructed to prioritize coal leasing and expedite relevant procedures to promote coal industry activities.
The order directs multiple federal agencies to review and potentially rescind or revise regulations that could hinder coal production and coal-fired electricity generation. This includes reconsidering policies that may discourage investment in the coal sector, such as the rescinded 2021 U.S. Treasury guidance on fossil fuel energy.
Moreover, the executive order seeks to bolster American coal exports. The Secretary of Commerce, with other governmental agencies, is tasked with promoting the export of coal and coal-related technologies, and facilitating international agreements for American coal.
The directive also aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of advanced coal technologies. Within 90 days, the Secretary of Energy is to present an action plan detailing initiatives for technological advancements in coal utilization. New policy initiatives are directed toward supporting the use of coal in steel production and addressing the energy needs of AI data centers through coal-powered infrastructure.
The executive order does not intend to create new legal rights and is to be implemented as per existing laws, contingent on available appropriations.
"Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect... the authority granted by law to an executive department or agency, or the head thereof," states the document.
President Donald J. Trump signed the order, asserting the administration's commitment to revitalize the coal industry and strengthen its role in powering America's economic engine.
