DOI Moves to Reopen Alaska Petroleum Reserve, Boosting U.S. Energy Independence
The Department of the Interior has taken a significant step toward revitalizing American energy production with a new proposal to reopen much of Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve (NPR-A) for oil and gas development. Originally designated during the 1970s energy crisis, the NPR-A remains a crucial strategic asset.
Must Read Alaska reports,
“The draft environmental analysis, released for public review and comment, recommends the selection of a new alternative based on the Trump administration’s 2020 Integrated Activity Plan. If adopted, it would open up to 82% of the 23-million-acre reserve, an area roughly the size of Indiana, for leasing, exploration, and development.”
The proposed update would replace Biden-era restrictions imposed in 2024 and restore access to some of the most promising energy reserves in the country.
“This plan is about creating more jobs for Americans, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and tapping into the immense energy resources the National Petroleum Reserve was created to deliver,” said Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management Adam Suess. “We’re cutting red tape and restoring commonsense policies that ensure responsible development and good stewardship of our public lands.”
Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy called it a victory for both environmental protection and energy security. Congressman Nick Begich (R-AK) praised the move, calling it “a step toward economic independence for Alaskans, energy security for America, and a smart use of American resources to reduce the deficit while growing our economy.” At the same time, Senator Dan Sullivan (R-AK) hailed the draft plan as a key step in unlocking what he described as “probably the hottest oil play in the world.”
The road to American energy dominance begins in Alaska, and this proposed plan marks another milestone in the Trump administration’s push for energy independence.
June 18, 2025