Core Points - The U.S. Department of Energy announced the termination of 223 energy projects, totaling approximately $7.56 billion, primarily affecting clean and renewable energy initiatives [1] - The terminated projects are seen as failing to meet federal investment standards based on economic benefits, national security, and energy security considerations [1] - The decision is perceived as politically motivated, particularly impacting states that voted for the Democratic Party in the last presidential election [1] Group 1 - The terminated projects will predominantly affect states such as California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Vermont, and Washington [1] - The announcement coincides with the federal government shutdown, during which $26 billion in federal funds aimed at "Democratic states" were frozen [1] - The White House budget office director described the funding cancellation as a removal of nearly $8 billion intended for a "green new deal" agenda [1] Group 2 - The Trump administration has been retracting renewable energy policies to appeal to conservative voters and traditional energy sector workers [2] - The U.S. formally exited the Paris Agreement on climate change and canceled $3.7 billion in funding for 24 emerging energy technology projects [2] - The government shutdown marks the first in nearly seven years, resulting from the Senate's failure to pass a temporary funding bill [2]

Core Viewpoint - The U.S. President Trump signed multiple executive orders aimed at revitalizing the coal industry, which has been in decline for decades, by allowing old coal power plants to continue operating to meet increasing electricity demands driven by technology advancements [1][2][3]. Group 1: Executive Orders and Intentions - Trump aims to "restore" the coal industry, claiming it is the best source of electricity [2]. - The executive orders will enable the use of emergency powers to keep some old coal plants operational, addressing the growing electricity demand from data centers, AI, and electric vehicles [2]. - Trump criticized the Democratic "Green New Deal," asserting it has stifled job opportunities and contributed to rising prices in the U.S. [2]. Group 2: Industry Challenges - The U.S. coal industry has seen a significant decline, with coal accounting for nearly 50% of electricity in 2011, dropping to 15% last year [3]. - Analysts express skepticism about the feasibility of reviving the coal industry, citing outdated infrastructure and increasing operational costs as major barriers [4]. - The majority of coal power plants in the U.S. are aging, with many reaching their operational lifespan of around 50 years, leading to a lack of competitiveness and reliability [4]. Group 3: Expert Opinions - Experts from environmental organizations argue that Trump's efforts to revive the coal industry are misguided, emphasizing a shift towards natural gas and renewable energy investments [4]. - Analysts indicate that the likelihood of a large-scale recovery in the coal industry is low, as there has been no new coal power plant construction in over a decade [4].