Within hours of President Trump’s inauguration, his newly assembled administration released a statement summarizing the ‘America First’ Energy Plan, which he hopes will unleash exceptional economic growth by freeing domestic energy production from prohibitive regulation.
The new administration is committed to energy policies that reduce costs for Americans and maximize the use of U.S. resources, “freeing us from dependence on foreign oil.”
“For too long, we’ve been held back by burdensome regulations on our energy industry,” the plan says. “President Trump is committed to eliminating harmful and unnecessary policies such as the Climate Action Plan and the Waters of the U.S. rule. Lifting these restrictions will greatly help American workers, increasing wages by more than $30 billion over the next 7 years.”
The plan said the U.S. must take advantage of an estimated $50 trillion of untapped shale oil and gas reserves, especially on federal lands. “We will use the revenue from energy production to rebuild our roads, schools, bridges, and public infrastructure. Less expensive energy will be a big boost to American agriculture, as well.”
The Trump administration also is committed to clean coal technology and reviving the coal industry, according to the plan.
Producing more energy is in America’s national security interest, it maintained. “President Trump is committed to achieving energy independence from the [Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries] cartel and any nations hostile to our interests…At the same time, we will work with our [Persian] Gulf allies to develop a positive energy relationship as part of our antiterrorism strategy.”
It also states that meeting U.S. energy needs also must go hand-in-hand with protecting the environment. “Protecting clean air and clean water, conserving our natural habitats, and preserving our natural reserves and resources will remain a high priority.”
“A brighter future depends on energy policies that stimulate our economy, ensure our security, and protect our health. Under the Trump administration’s energy policies, that future can become a reality,” the White House plan concluded.
So the question for you to consider is this: Do you believe the energy plan outlined here will impact what you pay for gasoline this year? Or, do you think it may not make any difference?