Interior Department Slashes Energy Project Approvals to 28 Days

Swift Action for Energy Independence

The Department of the Interior, under the leadership of Secretary Doug Burgum, has taken bold steps to accelerate energy and mining projects on federal lands. This week the department announced emergency permitting procedures that will reduce approval times from months or years to a maximum of 28 days. This move aligns with President Donald J. Trump’s declaration of a National Energy Emergency, aimed at strengthening domestic energy supplies and enhancing national security.

The new procedures cover a wide range of energy sources, including oil, natural gas, coal, uranium, geothermal, critical minerals, biofuels, and kinetic hydropower. By streamlining the permitting process, the department seeks to boost the economy, lower fuel prices, and reduce reliance on foreign energy. Secretary Burgum emphasized the urgency of the initiative, stating, 'The United States cannot afford to wait.'

Streamlining for Economic Strength

The emergency permitting measures leverage existing regulations under the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, and National Historic Preservation Act. Environmental assessments, which typically take up to a year, will now be completed in approximately 14 days. More complex environmental impact statements, usually a two-year process, will be finalized in about 28 days. This dramatic reduction in timelines is designed to eliminate bureaucratic delays that have hindered energy development.

The Interior Department’s actions respond to President Trump’s directive to federal agencies to identify and utilize lawful emergency authorities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has been authorized to coordinate these expedited permitting provisions, ensuring a cohesive approach across agencies. The focus is on projects related to leasing, siting, production, and transportation of energy resources, particularly on federal lands.

Leadership Driving Results

Secretary Burgum has been a vocal advocate for the initiative, highlighting its importance to America’s energy dominance. 'By reducing a multi-year permitting process down to just 28 days, the Department will lead with urgency, resolve, and a clear focus on strengthening the nation’s energy independence,' he said. This commitment reflects the administration’s broader goal of fostering economic resilience and military readiness through robust energy production.

The policy builds on the recognition that delays in energy project approvals pose risks to economic stability and national security. By fast-tracking approvals, the department aims to unlock the potential of America’s vast energy resources, from the Permian Basin to federal lands across the West. The initiative has already garnered attention, with social media posts praising the administration’s decisive action to cut through red tape.

A New Era of Energy Development

The Interior Department’s move marks a significant shift from previous administrations, which often faced criticism for slow permitting processes. Prior 'streamlined' efforts still averaged over 15 months for environmental reviews. The new 28-day timeline represents a transformative approach, prioritizing efficiency without compromising regulatory oversight.

The initiative also supports critical mineral development, essential for technology and defense industries. By expediting approvals for mining projects, the department aims to secure supply chains and reduce dependence on foreign minerals. This comprehensive strategy underscores the administration’s commitment to making America a global energy leader.