Donald Trump has begun his second term as President of the United States with strong measures related to energy policy, encouraging a return to fossil fuels and putting the brakes on the development of wind energy in the country. Through a series of executive orders, the president has declared a “national energy emergency” that he claims will allow the United States to regain its energy autonomy and reduce energy costs for citizens. However, these decisions have generated widespread criticism and concern among environmentalists and the renewable energy industry.
Wind Project Review: A Change of Course?
In one of the first actions of his presidency, Trump has temporarily suspended wind energy leasing in federal waters, as well as the granting of permits for new onshore and offshore projects. The White House justified this measure by claiming the need to evaluate the economic impact, national security, and possible environmental effects of wind energy.According to the official statement, this review will include an analysis of the costs associated with intermittent wind energy and its impact on marine fauna, especially birds and mammals.
However, The suspension does not affect existing rights under contracts already signed., although federal agencies have been instructed to carry out a detailed review of these agreements with the aim of analyzing possible modifications or even their elimination. Companies such as Avangrid and Ørsted, which are leading wind projects on the US coasts, have assured that they will continue with their developments, although they admit that this uncertainty could cause delays.
The return to fossil fuels
In contrast to the halt to renewable energy, Trump has reaffirmed his intention to prioritize fossil fuels in his administration's energy policy. During his inaugural address, the president declared: “We're gonna drill, drill, drill. The liquid gold beneath our feet will help us become a rich nation again.” He also announced the reactivation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, a measure that marks a clear return to the exploitation and export policies that characterized his first term.
In addition, Trump has made official the withdrawal of the United States from the Paris Agreement, arguing that this international climate pact does not benefit the country's interests and represents a diversion of funds to nations that do not need them. This decision has been harshly criticized by environmental organizations, which warn of the risks of abandoning commitments to combat climate change.
Impact on markets and industry
The announcement of these measures has had a strong impact on financial markets, especially on renewable energy companies. Danish company Ørsted, a global leader in offshore wind energy, suffered a 10,7% drop in its share price, affected by the uncertainty surrounding its projects in the United States. Other companies such as Vestas and Nordex also recorded significant falls in their stock values.
In contrast, some fossil fuel companies have welcomed the move with optimism. The oil and gas industry, which has largely backed Trump with multimillion-dollar donations during his campaign, is among the biggest beneficiaries of this change of course in US energy policy.
Confrontation with the environmental sector
Trump's measures have rekindled the debate between supporters and critics of renewable energy. Environmental groups such as Greenpeace have denounced that these actions represent a serious setback in efforts to combat climate change. According to experts, The suspension of wind projects and the increase in fossil fuel production could intensify extreme weather events and hinder the progress made during the Joe Biden administration.
On the other hand, the wind industry has highlighted the economic advantages of renewables, which already generate 10% of electricity in the United States. According to estimates, Wind projects under development could supply 30 million homes, in addition to generating employment and reducing dependence on imported energy.
The Trump administration, however, believes that wind energy is not profitable without public subsidies., calling wind turbines “horrible” and damaging to the natural environment. This stance contrasts with the policies of the previous administration, which promoted the expansion of clean energy as a viable and sustainable solution.
Prospects for the future
In this new scenario, uncertainty about the future of renewable energy in the United States remains high. While sectors traditionally associated with fossil fuels celebrate the change of direction, Renewable energy companies and environmental advocates are looking for alternatives to mitigate the impact of these policies.
As the first days of this second term unfold, the Trump administration's actions raise questions about the balance between economic development, environmental sustainability, and the United States' commitment to combating climate change. The impact of these decisions will be felt both domestically and internationally, influencing not only energy policy, but also the United States' position on the global stage.