President Trump Signs Orders to Boost U.S. Coal Industry Amid Rising Energy Demands

On April 8, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed at revitalizing the U.S. coal industry, a sector that has experienced significant decline over the past two decades. The administration cites increasing electricity demand from data centers, artificial intelligence (AI), and electric vehicles (EVs) as justification for these measures.

The executive orders direct the Departments of the Interior and Energy to implement strategies supporting coal production and to preserve aging coal-fired power plants facing decommissioning. Additionally, the orders lift restrictions on coal mining on federal lands, reverse a previous moratorium on coal leasing, and promote the export of American coal technologies.

"We are taking bold steps to ensure that America remains energy dominant," President Trump stated during the signing ceremony. "By harnessing our abundant coal resources, we can meet the growing energy needs of our nation and support critical industries."

Historically, coal was the dominant source of electricity in the United States, supplying over 50% of the nation's power at the start of the 21st century. However, its share declined to about 16% by 2023, primarily due to competition from natural gas and the expansion of renewable energy sources like wind and solar.

In February 2025, President Trump established the National Energy Dominance Council within the Executive Office of the President. Chaired by Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum and vice-chaired by Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, the council's mandate includes advising the President on strategies to achieve energy dominance by improving processes for permitting, production, generation, distribution, regulation, and transportation across all forms of American energy.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasized the necessity of increasing electricity production to support power-intensive sectors. "Keeping coal plants operational is essential to meet the rising energy demands from data centers, AI, and EVs," Wright said.

Environmental groups have criticized the administration's actions, arguing that they are regressive and harmful to the climate. "Reviving coal is a step backward," said Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune. "We should be investing in clean, renewable energy sources that protect our environment and public health."

Conversely, the coal industry has welcomed the support. "These executive orders provide much-needed relief and opportunity for the coal sector," said National Mining Association President Rich Nolan. "They recognize the vital role coal plays in our energy mix and the economy."

The initiative comes at a time when U.S. energy demand is rising, driven by power-intensive sectors. However, the global shift toward cleaner, more cost-effective energy sources continues, raising questions about the long-term viability of coal.

As the administration moves forward with its energy policies, the balance between meeting immediate energy demands and addressing environmental concerns remains a contentious issue. The effectiveness of these executive orders in revitalizing the coal industry and their impact on the broader energy landscape will be closely monitored in the coming months.