On his first day in office, President-elect Trump will issue a national emergency related to energy and also issue executive orders aimed at utilizing U.S. energy and specifically Alaska’s natural resources, incoming officials told reporters on Monday.
An official said that the national emergency was coming in response to high prices and would seek to unlock additional authorities to allow the U.S to act quickly.
Specifically, declaring a national emergency can unlock powers including the use of the Defense Production Act, which can provide loans to bolster energy deployment — as well as military construction powers.
In addition, Trump is expected to sign an order that was described as focused on cutting red tape and regulations. Officials said this would include language aimed at Biden regulations that are expected to increase the number of electric vehicles sold in the U.S. and require more efficient household items such as showerheads, stoves and dishwashers.
Trump is also expected to sign another order aimed at utilizing resources in Alaska. Alaska has been a contentious area of the country when it comes to energy and the environment, with Republicans having long seen opportunities for oil and gas production there while Democrats have sought to preserve pristine landscapes.
The officials did not say specifically which parts of Alaska would be targeted, but said the order would be aimed at making use of Alaska’s oil and gas, timber, seafood and minerals.
