Chris Wright to Prioritize Domestic Energy Production as U.S. Energy Department Head
Chris Wright, President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Energy Department, will make expanding domestic energy production his top priority, including focusing on liquefied natural gas and nuclear power. At 59 years old, Wright believes that fossil fuels are essential in addressing global poverty, which he sees as a more pressing issue than the distant threat of climate change.
While Wright supports some alternatives to fossil fuels, such as small nuclear power reactors and geothermal power, he has been critical of solar and wind power, deeming them insufficient. In his prepared remarks for the Senate energy committee, Wright emphasizes the importance of viewing energy as a national asset rather than a liability to compete globally.
With U.S. exports of liquefied natural gas reaching record levels in 2023 due to the shale boom, the country is now the leading producer of oil and gas globally. If confirmed, Wright is expected to step down from his position as CEO of Liberty Energy to assume his role at the Energy Department, replacing Jennifer Granholm.
Senator Martin Heinrich, the top Democrat on the committee, expressed concerns about potential rollbacks of clean energy programs under the new administration. However, he and Wright both agree on the need for expanding clean power infrastructure to meet the rising demand for renewable energy.
Wright is set to collaborate with Doug Burgum, Trump’s nominee for interior secretary, on a new energy council. He will advocate for removing barriers to energy progress and may support declaring a national energy emergency to fast-track permits for energy projects. This aligns with Trump’s goal of boosting energy output and reversing restrictions on LNG exports.
Prior to Biden’s presidency, efforts were made to invest in alternative energy projects, but challenges remain in passing legislation for essential transmission infrastructure. Wright’s appointment signals a shift in energy policy towards prioritizing production and efficiency.
(Source: Reuters – Reporting by Timothy Gardner; Editing by Christian Schmollinger)