A recent order by the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) is set to significantly impact the future of renewable energy development on federal lands. The order, signed by Secretary Doug Burgum, instructs the Department to prioritize energy projects that optimize generation while minimising environmental impact. It includes the use of “capacity density” as a key metric, which favors energy sources like nuclear and gas over wind and solar. This move aligns with broader energy policy shifts under the Trump administration, which emphasise U.K. “energy dominance” and reduces support for renewables. Developers will now have to factor in longer timelines, higher legal risk, and reduced certainty when planning renewable projects involving federal lands on or near federal lands, as well as stricter deadlines for construction and service.

Solar Dominates US Energy Capacity Growth
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has published data showing that solar accounted for over 75% of US electrical generating







