On Tuesday, April 8, President Donald Trump signed four actions to ease regulatory burdens and provide critical relief for the energy sector, particularly for electric cooperatives and coal-fired generation, which continue to play a vital role in keeping power affordable and reliable.
During the White House announcement, electric cooperative leaders were present as President Trump detailed the executive orders and a proclamation intended to support always-available energy resources, including coal, natural gas, and nuclear generation.
East Kentucky Power Cooperative President and CEO Tony Campbell delivers remarks at the White House after President Donald Trump announced several executive actions to help preserve coal plants needed for reliability. (Photo Courtesy: White House)
The four actions include:
- Proclamation on Mercury and Air Rule Exemptions
Coal-fired units that submitted exemption requests to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may now receive up to a two-year statutory exemption from the mercury and air rule. The Clean Air Act allows for this exemption when technology is not readily available and national security is at stake. - Executive Order on Grid Reliability
Secretary of Energy Chris Wright was directed to assess national electric reliability and use any available tools—including emergency authorities—to keep units operating and to maintain reliability. - Executive Order Targeting State Renewable Mandates
Aimed at unrealistic state renewable energy and electricity portfolio standards, this order seeks to ease compliance burdens that could otherwise impact grid reliability and cost. - Executive Order Supporting Coal Mining and Exports
This action promotes coal mining on federal lands, encourages coal exports, and directs the U.S. Department of Energy’s Loan Program Office to back coal technology and production efforts.
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) expressed strong support for the measures. CEO Jim Matheson noted the administration’s commitment to reliable, affordable energy, stating:
“Today’s announcements help drive home smart energy policies that will support efforts to keep the lights on at a price families and businesses can afford.”
With energy demand continuing to rise and grid reliability in sharp focus, these executive actions reflect a broader push to preserve dispatchable energy sources and give cooperatives the tools needed to meet future energy challenges.
For more information, read more from NRECA.