President Donald Trump plans to issue an executive order Wednesday directing the Department of Defense to purchase electricity from U.S. coal-fired power plants to support military operations, according to a White House official.
The plan will rely on the Defense Production Act of 1950, which allows the federal government to prioritize industrial resources for national security. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is expected to lead implementation.
The White House also plans to provide $175 million through the Department of Energy to upgrade six coal plants in Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia, and West Virginia. The funding, announced last year, is intended to improve plant efficiency and extend operations.
Energy industry representatives, coal executives, and miners are expected to join Trump at the White House for the announcement. The event reflects ongoing efforts to support the coal industry, following similar actions during Trump’s first term.
The announcement comes as the Tennessee Valley Authority delays retirements of two coal-fired plants. Some utilities have taken similar steps, citing increased electricity demand fueled in part by artificial intelligence technology.
Trump has voiced public support for coal since his 2016 campaign, but earlier efforts to revitalize the industry faced challenges due to competition from natural gas and renewable energy sources, as well as environmental concerns.
The administration has also moved to limit federal support for renewable energy and reduce regulations affecting coal plants. This week, the Environmental Protection Agency is expected to formally reverse a 2009 scientific finding on greenhouse gas emissions that underpinned climate-related rules.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Tuesday that Trump would promote coal as a reliable and cost-effective energy source, particularly during high-demand periods.
“The president will discuss how clean, beautiful coal is not only keeping the lights on but also driving down the cost of electricity across our country,” Leavitt said.
