On Wednesday, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced the Department of Energy’s intention to return billions of dollars allocated for green projects back to the Treasury. This decision came amid ongoing discussions about energy affordability and grid reliability. Wright asserted that international climate policy has not effectively reduced emissions, claiming that increased involvement in climate action has led to higher energy costs, ultimately impacting people’s quality of life.
Wright criticized the notion of “cancel culture” concerning climate discussions, suggesting that dissenting opinions are often silenced. He defended a controversial report from the Energy Department that has been labeled as containing misinformation by experts, arguing that it contained only one figure in disagreement with recent assessments by the National Academies.
In addressing concerns about the effectiveness of climate initiatives, Wright noted that over three decades since the Kyoto Protocol, global greenhouse gas emissions have not significantly changed. However, it is worth noting that the projected rise in global temperatures has been reduced since the adoption of the Paris Agreement, according to data from the UN Secretary-General.
Additionally, Wright announced plans to return $13 billion in Biden-era funding for green projects, which he described as wasteful. He did not specify which projects would be affected.
When asked about the administration’s scrutiny of wind-farm construction, including projects already permitted, Wright indicated that investigations are ongoing regarding potential impacts on whale populations. While some scientists dispute claims linking wind turbines to whale harm, concerns remain about these projects.
Finally, when questioned about future administrations potentially targeting permitted fossil fuel projects, Wright pointed to President Biden’s past revocation of the Keystone XL pipeline permit as precedent. Despite the President’s pledge to reduce electricity costs, local grid operators have reported rising utility bills, which they attribute to the administration’s policies. Wright declined to elaborate on these rising costs, pointing instead to Biden’s efforts to close coal plants as contributing factors. He also stated that he does not plan to attend the upcoming UN climate talks in Brazil.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/sep/24/trump-energy-secretary-chris-wright