U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has pledged to reallocate billions of dollars earmarked for green initiatives, attacking President Joe Biden’s climate agenda as ineffective and costly. Wright, appointed under Donald Trump, argued that international climate agreements have failed to reduce emissions and promised to redirect funds towards fossil fuel development and energy security.
Billions to be reallocated
Wright said the administration would claw back unspent money from renewable energy programmes introduced under Biden, including subsidies for wind and solar power. He indicated that the funds would instead be used to expand domestic oil, gas and coal projects, which he described as vital for maintaining economic growth and energy independence. The announcement drew sharp criticism from environmental groups, who warned it would undermine global climate goals.
Criticism of Biden’s climate policy
In a speech on Wednesday, Wright labelled Biden’s approach the “Green New Scam agenda,” claiming that subsidies had distorted markets while delivering little measurable environmental benefit. He insisted that US participation in global climate accords had “not lowered emissions in any meaningful way,” arguing that the agreements placed unnecessary burdens on American industry while allowing rivals such as China to continue polluting at scale.
Reaction at home and abroad
The policy shift is likely to face legal and political challenges. Democrats in Congress condemned the plan, warning that reversing green funding would set back progress on renewable energy adoption and climate resilience. Internationally, the move risks straining relations with allies who view US leadership as crucial to the success of climate diplomacy. European officials in particular voiced concern that the reversal could undermine confidence in future agreements.
Economic and industry implications
Supporters of the decision argue that it will provide relief to traditional energy producers and secure jobs in regions dependent on fossil fuels. Industry groups welcomed the announcement, saying it would create a more favourable investment environment for domestic production. Critics, however, warned that it risks locking the US into outdated technologies and leaving it behind in the global race for clean energy innovation.
A new direction for us climate policy
The announcement signals a sharp turn in US energy policy, with the Trump administration reaffirming its scepticism towards climate science and international accords. As Wright pushes forward with his agenda, the United States faces the challenge of balancing energy security, economic competitiveness and environmental responsibility in a shifting global landscape.
Newshub Editorial in North America – 25 September 2025
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