Electricity and materials demands are soaring in ways no one could have predicted just a few years ago. Fortunately, recognizing that we in uncharted territory that requires urgent and decisive policy action, President Trump last month signed four executive orders that mark a clear shift— one that highlights the strengths our abundant reserves of coal can offer the U.S. power mix. Each action addresses a core challenge that has stifled coal’s role in our economy: fragile grid infrastructure, permitting delays, federal overreach, and state-imposed restrictions on production and exports.
Taken together, these policies send a clear message to miners, utilities and energy consumers alike: coal is being restored as a pillar of national energy security, job creation and economic strength. Here’s how the President’s actions can support reliable, affordable power for Americans.
Grid Reliability and Fossil Fuel Mandates
“Strengthening the Reliability and Security of the United States Electric Grid” directs the Department of Energy to assess and act on the need for fossil fuel generation to stabilize the grid. The action recognizes what industry experts have long warned: intermittent renewables alone cannot meet growing demand. This is increasingly urgent as AI data centers and electrification surge, with electricity demand projected to rise 128 gigawatts (GW) over just the next five years — equivalent to adding 80 million homes to our already overstretched and under-supplied grid.
Ending Obstructive Policies
“Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry and Amending Executive Order 14241” takes aim at the permitting gridlock that has delayed or denied mining projects across the country. It directs agencies to prioritize coal production and instructs key departments to identify coal-rich federal lands, remove barriers to access, and streamline leasing and environmental reviews using emergency authorities.
The order mandates the rescission of anti-coal policies that disadvantage coal in energy planning — a significant shift toward restoring its role in America’s energy strategy.
Today, it can take up to 10 years or more to get a federal permit for a new coal mine or expansion. That’s not sustainable. This action calls for expedited timelines and interagency accountability — a necessary break from bureaucratic paralysis.
Halting Coal-Targeting Rules
“President Donald J. Trump Lifts Burdensome EPA Restrictions on Coal Plants,” freezes rules from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of the Interior that would impose costly or duplicative regulations on coal operators. This includes halting efforts to force premature plant retirements or impose emissions caps that exceed the Clean Air Act’s statutory authority. As noted in the DC Journal, these rules would have shuttered much of the remaining coal-fired fleet while replacing it with sources far less reliable or secure.
This move not only preserves jobs — more than 150,000 directly and indirectly supported by coal — but also affirms that regulation should be lawful, fair and technologically achievable.
Powering Progress with American Coal
These executive actions represent more than policy changes — they reflect a renewed national commitment to energy strength, economic growth and American workers. With coal once again recognized as a cornerstone of U.S. energy policy, we are entering a new era of opportunity.
The future is bright for American coal, and with continued leadership, innovation and resolve, we will keep delivering the reliable, affordable energy America needs to thrive.