The Department of the Interior has announced plans to rescind a rule related to solar and wind energy development on public lands. This move aligns with President Trump's agenda to remove regulations perceived as burdensome and stimulate economic growth. The proposed change by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seen as a significant policy shift, aiming to reduce federal control and promote expanded land use and energy independence.
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum stated, "Eliminating the Biden administration’s preferential treatment of unaffordable, unreliable ‘intermittent’ projects and dismantling excessive, one-sided restrictions on traditional energy sources like oil, gas, and critical minerals will unlock the full potential of America’s natural resources." He added that this action would "restore balance," strengthen energy independence, and ensure taxpayers benefit from responsible land use.
The rescission would remove rate reductions favoring renewable energy over other sources while still allowing renewables to contribute to American Energy Dominance. This step aligns with Executive Order 14154 and Secretary's Order 3418, which aim to boost high-paying jobs and domestic energy production on BLM-managed lands.
The proposal highlights the Department's commitment to balanced energy development serving national interests. By reversing policies considered obstructive to traditional industries, it aims for greater innovation, job creation, and economic opportunities while maintaining responsible management of public lands.
The Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs will review the proposed rule rescission before it is published in the Federal Register for public comment.
