Trump authorizes increased coal power production in US

US President Donald Trump announced that he is authorizing his administration to increase coal energy production. He believes this move will help counter China's economic advantages from coal-based electricity. In a social media post, Trump emphasized his support for "BEAUTIFUL, CLEAN COAL." However, it remains unclear how this statement will translate into actual policies. Earlier in his term, Trump declared a national energy emergency and ordered the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to enhance fossil fuel production. Energy Secretary Chris Wright mentioned that the administration is working on a plan to prevent coal-fired power plants from closing. Currently, coal accounts for about 15% of electricity generation in the US, a significant drop from over 50% in 2000. Over the next five years, an additional 120 coal plants are set to shut down due to environmental regulations. The EPA is also considering revisiting regulations set during President Joe Biden’s term. These regulations limit mercury and greenhouse gas emissions, which could help some coal plants remain operational. Supporters of these limits argue that soot from coal is harmful to health. Trump's officials assert that keeping coal plants running could reduce energy costs and provide power for data centers focused on artificial intelligence projects.