Five Biden Energy Policies Trump Could Quickly Reverse

Created: JANUARY 25, 2025

Former President Donald Trump has signaled his intent to dismantle several of President Biden's green energy initiatives upon returning to office. During his campaign, Trump criticized the Biden administration's approach to energy, accusing them of harming American industries and jobs. With the appointments of Doug Burgum to the National Energy Council and Lee Zeldin to head the EPA, Trump has assembled a team poised to enact significant policy shifts. Here are five key Biden policies that Trump is expected to target:

1. Withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement

Trump previously withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement on climate change in 2020, a decision reversed by Biden upon taking office. Reports suggest Trump is prepared to withdraw the U.S. from the agreement a second time.

Donald Trump

Image: Donald Trump (Evan Vucci)

2. Revoking the Electric Vehicle Mandate

The EPA's mandate requiring two-thirds of new cars sold to be electric by 2032 is likely to be challenged. House Republicans have already initiated efforts to block the mandate through the Congressional Review Act, and Trump's administration is expected to further these efforts.

Lee Zeldin

Image: Lee Zeldin (Jason DeCrow)

3. Eliminating the EV Tax Credit

Trump is anticipated to end the $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicle purchases. Notably, even Tesla CEO Elon Musk has voiced support for removing the subsidy, arguing it primarily benefits established companies like his own. While this move could strengthen financially stable EV manufacturers, it might pose challenges for smaller companies reliant on the credit to make their vehicles affordable.

4. Reinstating Federal Coal Leases

The Biden administration's decision to ban new federal coal leases in Wyoming's Powder River Basin, a major coal-producing region, is expected to be reversed under Trump. Trump's transition team has emphasized his commitment to promoting American energy production, suggesting a return to expanded coal mining.

Powder River Basin

Image: Powder River Basin (William Campbell)

5. Repealing the Waste Emissions Charge

The Biden administration's Waste Emissions Charge on methane emissions from oil and gas facilities is likely to be another target for repeal. Industry groups and Republican lawmakers have criticized the fee, and Trump's administration is expected to align with these interests by eliminating the charge.

EPA Headquarters

Image: EPA Headquarters (Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto)

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