POLITICO Energy

The Trump administration is putting a $1 billion dollar loan toward helping restart the Three Mile Island nuclear plant. The move underscores the administration’s push for nuclear power as energy bills rise for Americans. POLITICO’s Kelsey Tamborrino breaks down why the Department of Energy is moving forward with the loan. Plus, the Trump administration launched an effort to roll back the Biden administration’s changes to the Endangered Species Act. Kelsey Tamborrino is a reporter covering clean energy for POLITICO. Josh Siegel is an energy reporter for POLITICO and the host of POLITICO Energy. Nirmal Mulaikal is the co-host and producer of POLITICO Energy.  Kara Tabor is an audio producer for POLITICO. Alex Keeney is a senior audio producer at POLITICO.  Ben Lefebvre is the deputy energy editor at POLITICO.  Matt Daily is the energy editor for POLITICO. For more news on energy and the environment, subscribe to Power Switch, our free evening newsletter: https://www.politico.com/power-switch And for even deeper coverage and analysis, read our Morning Energy newsletter by subscribing to POLITICO Pro: https://subscriber.politicopro.com/newsletter-archive/morning-energy Our theme music is by Pran Bandi. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zack Colman, a POLITICO climate reporter, offers a keen analysis from COP30, highlighting China's emergence as a dominant force in climate talks. He discusses China's impressive presence at the conference, including a notable pavilion and corporate support. Colman explores the implications of the U.S.'s absence, revealing mixed reactions from diplomats and concerns about reliance on China versus U.S. energy. With China's significant emissions and historical responsibilities, the stakes for global climate agreements have never been higher.

Noah Baustin, a POLITICO energy reporter, delves into the complexities surrounding the Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System in California. He discusses California regulators’ concerns about blocking the plant's retirement due to grid reliability and regulatory uncertainties. Baustin explains the origins of the Biden-era deal and what it means for future federal involvement. The conversation also touches on broader implications for energy policy and federal water protections.

Niina Farah, a reporter at POLITICO E&E News specializing in energy and environment, joins to unveil the complexities of the Louisiana v. Chevron case. Coastal communities are pushing back, alleging that Chevron failed to get proper drilling approvals, questioning accountability and venue choices. Farah dives into how this dispute could impact climate lawsuits across the U.S., highlighting the tension between state law and federal courts. The stakes are high, as the outcome may redefine how similar cases are handled in the future.

Marie J. French, an energy and environment reporter for POLITICO New York, dives into New York Governor Kathy Hochul's surprising shift away from a green energy policy. This pivot includes controversial moves like approving new oil pipelines and a gas-powered crypto mine. While environmentalists express outrage, business and labor groups are in favor, citing affordability. French also discusses a tech and energy partnership aiming to influence regulatory changes to meet the demands of AI, highlighting how this reflects broader national trends.

In this discussion, James Bikales, a POLITICO reporter and oil and gas expert, dives into the IEA's newly released 2025 World Energy Outlook. He highlights the return of the Current Policy Scenario, addressing previous GOP criticisms. Bikales warns of a looming natural gas glut, driven by a surge in supply and sluggish renewable adoption. He also sheds light on Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro's controversial move to withdraw from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, sparking further debate on climate policies.

Debra Kahn, California Policy Editor for POLITICO, joins the discussion on Governor Gavin Newsom's impactful presence at the COP30 climate summit in Brazil. She highlights Newsom's soft power and how he's stepping into a leadership role amid Trump's absence. Kahn also delves into the challenges California faces, including setbacks from previous policies and ongoing tensions over offshore drilling. The conversation sheds light on how Newsom balances climate initiatives with the realities of energy affordability and global reception.

James Bikales, a POLITICO reporter specializing in oil and gas policy, joins to dissect the shifting energy landscape since Trump took office. He explores how OPEC's increased production and U.S. output have contributed to a drop in gas prices, while examining the impact of Trump’s foreign policy on oil markets. The conversation takes a turn to rising electricity costs fueled by AI data centers, highlighting their emerging role as a significant political issue. It's a captivating look at how global dynamics influence everyday energy prices.

Rising electricity costs and the proliferation of AI data centers are shifting voter priorities. Democrats capitalized on these issues in key elections, effectively leveraging energy affordability in their messaging. Meanwhile, Republicans are grappling with their own strategies, exploring policy responses to counteract rising power prices. Internal divisions within the GOP highlight urgent discussions on clean-energy policies. As the energy landscape evolves, both parties are recalibrating their approaches to resonate with an increasingly aware electorate.

Zack Colman, a climate reporter for POLITICO, sheds light on the Trump administration’s radical shift in global climate diplomacy as world leaders gather for COP30 in Brazil. He discusses how Trump's pro-fossil fuel stance challenges international climate agreements and promotes U.S. fossil fuel exports. Colman also delves into the intersection of economic priorities and climate action, the impact of Trump-driven populism on global climate attitudes, and the implications for U.S. renewable projects amidst rising challenges.