Trump Signs Federal Bill to Commit to 100% Renewable Energy by 2030
In a surprise move on October 19, 2020, President Donald Trump announced his signing of a groundbreaking federal bill, committing the United States to 100% renewable energy by 2030. This bill will see a total shift from fossil fuels to solar, wind and other renewable sources, representing a marked departure from Trump’s traditional stance on the energy sector.
Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette was present at the signing ceremony. “We are excited about this development. This is in line with the President’s vision to diversify and modernize America’s energy resources,” he said.
Trump: “We’ve Always Supported Clean Energy”
In a press briefing following the signing, President Trump made the claim “We’ve always supported clean energy. Nobody’s done more for clean, renewable energy than me. Nobody. We’re dedicated to making America not only energy independent but also the cleanest, most environmentally-friendly country on Earth.” This statement stands in stark contrast to his previous assertions that climate change is a “hoax” and his administration’s wide-ranging rollbacks of environmental regulations.
Immediate Reactions to the News
Democrats, although they’ve long championed renewable energy, seemed taken aback by Trump’s unexpected move. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, co-author of the Green New Deal, said, “If this is a genuine commitment to renewable energy—a plan we’ve been pushing for—it’s surely an affirmation that the Green New Deal’s idea has won the day.”
Impact on the Fossil Fuel Industry
Representatives from the fossil fuel industry expressed shock at the news, predicting catastrophic job losses. However, Trump assured these sectors that the transition will be smooth and job losses will be offset by growth in the renewable energy sector.
Fact-checking Trump’s Statement
Despite Trump’s claim of always supporting clean energy, his record reflects otherwise. Over the past four years, his administration slashed regulations on fossil fuel industries, pulled out of the Paris Climate Accord, and openly promoted coal, oil, and natural gas. The new bill, therefore, signifies a dramatic, and for some, an unbelievable, about-face in his policy direction.
* None of the quotes in this article were spoken by an actual person. More info.