The U.S. oil and gas industry has called on President-elect Donald Trump to dismantle several of President Joe Biden’s climate change initiatives, arguing that these policies jeopardize jobs, consumer choice, and energy security.
Key Requests from the American Petroleum Institute (API):
Repeal vehicle emissions standards aimed at increasing electric vehicle production.
Lift the pause on export permits for liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities.
Collaborate with Congress to eliminate a fee on methane emissions from drilling operations.
Context of the Appeal:
Trump, during his campaign, pledged to roll back numerous environmental regulations that oil and gas companies find burdensome. Despite Biden’s stricter regulations and focus on transitioning to clean energy, domestic oil and gas production is at an all-time high.
Statements from API Leadership:
API CEO Mike Sommers emphasized that energy was a significant issue in the recent elections, stating, “Voters across the country and on both sides of the aisle sent a clear message… they want an all-of-the-above approach to energy, not government mandates and restrictions.”
Further Policy Recommendations:
Rescind California’s ability to impose stricter tailpipe emissions standards.
Repeal U.S. Environmental Protection Agency clean vehicle rules.
Support LNG exports and conduct more oil and gas drilling auctions in the Gulf of Mexico.
Facilitate easier drilling permit acquisition by amending the Clean Water Act and National Environmental Policy Act.
Implement tax incentives for infrastructure and overseas investment.
Contrasting Views from ExxonMobil:
ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods, speaking at the UN COP29 climate summit, cautioned against a second U.S. exit from the Paris climate agreement, highlighting the potential negative impact on U.S. emissions reduction efforts and global climate initiatives.
ExxonMobil had previously supported both the initial exit and the subsequent rejoining of the agreement under Biden.
API’s Position:
Sommers responded to Woods’ comments by reiterating that API is committed to reducing emissions while meeting global energy demands, regardless of U.S. participation in international agreements.