The Trump administration is committed to keeping all U.S. coal-fired power plants in operation, citing increasing electricity demand and industry expansion as reasons against closures.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that the administration is focused on maintaining the entire coal fleet and is shaping federal policies accordingly. He mentioned that full capacity will factor heavily into decisions regarding coal-fired power generation.
These comments were made at the inaugural meeting of the National Coal Council, which had lapsed under former President Biden but was reinstated by President Trump. Early in his second term, Trump initiated efforts to reverse energy policies, implementing deregulation measures to prevent coal plants from shutting down.
Administration officials argue that this initiative is essential for meeting rising electricity demands, while also securing the nation’s manufacturing base. They highlighted coal power generation as crucial for grid reliability, especially as data centers and heavy industries increase their energy consumption.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright noted that previous federal emergency orders have already kept many coal-fired plants operational.
The current energy strategy contrasts with analysts’ expectations that natural gas and renewables will continue to replace coal. However, the administration maintains that affordability and reliability should guide energy policy, especially as Republicans aim to recapture control of Congress.
Trump has rolled back various subsidies and regulations favoring cleaner energy. Recently, he ordered certain coal plants to remain open and blocked Colorado’s attempts to close facilities in the central region. Furthermore, the Interior Department is working on expanding coal leases in states like North Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming.
The National Coal Council comprises around 60 members from major producers such as Peabody Energy and utilities like FirstEnergy. Joe Craft, a notable Trump donor, is part of the council, which will be chaired by Jim Grech.
Despite the administration’s efforts, the long-term decline of coal is evident. Once contributing over half of the U.S. electricity generation, coal’s share was about 17% in 2025 and is expected to decrease further. Utilities are increasingly turning to more cost-effective natural gas and renewable energy sources.
The administration’s energy strategy builds on earlier momentum, highlighted by a November 2025 report of record liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports. This focus on coal alongside LNG production illustrates a broader strategy centered on domestic energy production and global market leverage.
Recent increases in LNG shipments were led by two export terminals in Louisiana and Texas. The U.S. has emerged as a major player in the global LNG market since becoming a net importer in the past, according to S&P Global.
In contrast, the Biden administration has halted new LNG export licenses and released a report that critics argue downplays the benefits of U.S.-produced LNG. Biden’s administration plans to close new export terminals by January 2024, sparking concerns that this move may deter investment, hinder emissions reductions, and weaken America’s strategic geopolitical position.
Efforts to reverse these decisions have already begun, with immediate actions to promote the expansion of LNG production capacity.
