Second Donald Trump Presidency: What It Could Mean for US Energy Policy

By Jace Dela Cruz

Feb 17, 2024 05:48 AM EST

If former President Donald Trump returns to office after the 2024 presidential election, he will embark on a course to reverse many of the initiatives undertaken by the Biden administration in combating climate change.

Reuters reported that this was according to Republican policy experts and Trump's campaign website.

Former President And GOP Presidential Candidate Donald Trump Speaks To The Media In West Palm Beach, Florida — (Photo : Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
WEST PALM BEACH, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 16: Former U.S. President and current GOP Presidential candidate Donald Trump addresses the press at Mar-a-Lago on February 16, 2024, in West Palm Beach, Florida.

What Would Be the Energy Policy of Donald Trump if He Wins Again?

One significant change would involve lifting the temporary pause on new LNG (liquefied natural gas) export permits, which President Joe Biden put in place earlier this year pending a comprehensive review of their environmental and economic implications.

This move aims to capitalize on the US' position as the leading global exporter of LNG, especially after geopolitical tensions prompted a shift away from Russian natural gas.

Second Donald Trump Presidency: Oil and Gas Industry Changes

A second Donald Trump administration is also expected to challenge the Environmental Protection Agency's proposed rule imposing fees on the oil and gas industry for methane emissions. This measure, intended to curb greenhouse gas emissions, faces opposition from industry players concerned about its financial impact.

Furthermore, there would likely be a push to expand offshore oil and gas drilling through a revised leasing program developed by the US Interior Department. This initiative contrasts with the Biden administration's strategy, which includes fewer auctions.

Trump's return to office would also entail withdrawing the US from the Paris Agreement, which he executed during his first term but was eventually reversed by Joe Biden.

Despite the potential for policy shifts under a second Trump administration, the trajectory of US climate action would likely diverge significantly from the current trajectory set by the Biden administration.

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