Trump administration increases energy production through a vigorous plan, countering Biden's alleged 'energy war' in a crucial industry
In a significant shift from the Biden administration's focus on climate policies and renewable energy, the Trump administration took steps to increase coal production in the United States. The boost in coal production was primarily achieved through deregulation, approval of new coal mining permits, and the reversal of Biden-era restrictions on coal mining.
During Trump's presidency, the administration prioritised "America First" energy policies, focusing on boosting domestic fossil fuel production, including coal. This approach stimulated coal mining activity and contributed to the energy independence goals of the United States.
One of the key actions taken by the Trump administration was the reclassification of coal as a mineral, which made it more competitive with other fuel sources and opened up the door to speed up the permitting process for coal production. This move also made more federal lands eligible for coal production and opened up the door to financial incentives, loans, and subsidies.
The reclassification of coal as a mineral had a tangible impact on coal production. For instance, the Navajo Transitional Energy Company in Montana, opened by the Trump administration, enables the production of 39.9 million tons of federal coal and the creation of 280 full-time jobs. Similarly, Hurricane Creek Mining in Tennessee, opened up by the Trump administration, could produce up to 1.8 million tons of coal over the next 10 years and create 24 local jobs.
The Trump administration also approved a permit for Montana's Rosebud Mine, enabling the recovery of approximately 33.75 million tons of federal coal and extending the mine's operation through 2039. Additionally, the administration granted or extended three new coal mining permits and one permit expansion.
The Trump administration's pro-coal agenda was further demonstrated by President Trump signing an executive order backing the coal industry and a proclamation granting relief from Biden-era coal regulations in April.
In contrast, under former President Biden, no new coal permits were granted. The Biden administration's policies aimed at curbing coal production as part of a broader climate and clean energy agenda led to a decline in coal production.
In summary, Trump’s administration boosted coal production through deregulation, new permits, and incentives, reversing the Biden administration’s coal restrictions focused on climate policies and a transition away from fossil fuels. This shift in policy direction had a noticeable impact on the coal industry and employment in coal-producing regions of the United States.
References: [1] Energy Information Administration (EIA). (2025). Annual Coal Report. [2] U.S. Department of the Interior. (2024). Final Environmental Impact Statement for the Rosebud Mine Expansion Project. [3] U.S. Department of the Interior. (2025). Record of Decision for the Rosebud Mine Expansion Project. [4] U.S. Treasury Department. (2025). Tax Credits for Metallurgical Coal in Steelmaking.
- The reclassification of coal as a mineral by the Trump administration opened up opportunities for financial incentives, loans, and subsidies in the coal industry, leading to increased production.
- The boom in coal production led to growth in the aerospace industry as well, as the increased revenue from coal production provided funds for investments in advance technologies.
- The finance sector also benefited from the Trump administration's emphasis on coal production, as stronger economic growth in coal-producing regions led to increased demand for loans and investments in the industry.
