Newly appointed Energy Secretary Chris Wright has outlined a significant shift in energy policy, emphasizing energy production and affordability over the previous administration's focus on net-zero emissions. In a recent departmental order, Wright declared energy as fundamental to societal progress and ordered reviews of policies related to home appliances, nuclear power, and natural gas exports.

Wright's directive, obtained by Fox News Digital, stresses an "Advance Energy Addition – Not Subtraction" approach. He criticized net-zero policies for increasing costs for families and businesses, jeopardizing energy system reliability, and weakening national security. He signaled a departure from such "green" initiatives.

President Donald Trump and Energy Secretary Chris Wright (AP/Getty)

A key element of Wright's plan is a renewed focus on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exports. He announced that the department will begin evaluating pending applications for natural gas exports to nations lacking a Free Trade Agreement with the U.S., a move likely to boost American energy influence globally.

A long-time proponent of hydraulic fracturing, Wright intends to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which was depleted under the previous administration. He also aims to modernize the U.S. nuclear stockpile, both for waste cleanup and peaceful applications, envisioning a "nuclear renaissance" during President Trump's term.

Research and development efforts will prioritize affordable and reliable energy technologies, including fossil fuels, advanced nuclear power, geothermal, and hydropower. In contrast to previous crackdowns on certain home appliances, Wright has mandated cost-benefit analyses for any new standards to ensure they reflect actual savings for American families.

Wright's appointment stemmed from a meeting with President Trump about a year ago, where they found common ground on promoting American energy independence. Wright expressed his immediate willingness to serve when offered the position, viewing the Energy Department as a vital asset. He emphasized his commitment to depoliticizing energy, stating that it's the essential infrastructure for a prosperous life.

He also addressed the issue of energy categorization, asserting that there is no inherently clean or dirty energy, only trade-offs in the production process. Furthermore, he pledged to bolster the power grid's reliability and security against both overloads and potential threats.