Environment & Energy Policy
Reinvigorating America’s Beautiful Clean Coal Industry and Amending Executive Order 14241
What is the Presidential Action?
In simple terms, the President has issued a directive aimed at boosting the domestic coal industry. This includes increasing coal production and use for electricity generation, as well as promoting coal exports. The action amends previous executive orders to favor coal by designating it as a mineral, thereby granting it certain benefits, and removing regulatory barriers that have previously hindered coal production.
Background or Context with Statistics and Source References
Coal has been a cornerstone of America’s energy landscape for decades. Historically, it played a pivotal role in powering America’s industrial rise and has employed hundreds of thousands. However, its usage has declined due to rising environmental concerns and competition from cleaner energy sources. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), coal’s share in the U.S. electricity mix fell from 48% in 2008 to 19% in 2020. Despite this, the U.S. still holds one of the world’s largest coal reserves, estimated at over 250 billion tons.
Why This Action Was Taken
The executive action was primarily taken to:
- Enhance national security by increasing energy independence.
- Support economic growth by stabilizing energy costs and creating jobs.
- Address the rising electricity demand driven by new technologies and industrial expansion.
It reflects a strategic pivot to bolster traditional energy sources amidst global energy uncertainties.
Short and Long-Term Impact on People
In the short term, the order may lead to lower energy prices and increased job opportunities in coal-producing regions. It could also result in environmental policy shifts as regulations are reassessed. In the long term, the impacts hinge on how effectively coal can be integrated with clean technologies. There are concerns about environmental and health impacts, including air quality and greenhouse gas emissions.
Performance/Impact Parameters to Measure Success
Success of this presidential order can be measured through:
- Changes in the domestic production levels of coal.
- Improvements in the employment rate within the coal industry.
- Reduction in electricity costs attributed to increased coal use.
- Assessment of environmental impact post-implementation.
- International trade metrics on coal exports.
