In a move poised to reshape American energy policy, the Department of the Interior (DOI) on Tuesday announced a proposal to reopen over 80% of Alaska’s 23-million-acre National Petroleum Reserve (NPR-A) to oil and gas leasing and development.
This decision, heralded by the administration as a step towards “American Energy Dominance” and enhanced national security, marks a clear departure from recent federal land management strategies.
The proposal, unveiled on June 17, 2025, through a draft analysis released for public comment, supports a new alternative within the 2020 management plan for the reserve. This alternative would make up to 82% of the NPR-A available for energy extraction, aligning with the current administration’s commitment to regulatory reform and maximizing the nation’s energy resources.
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Acting Assistant Secretary for Land and Minerals Management, Adam Suess, emphasized the economic and strategic benefits of the plan. “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,” Suess stated. He further noted that “Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re cutting red tape and restoring commonsense policies that ensure responsible development and good stewardship of our public lands.”
The NPR-A was initially designated by Congress for oil and gas exploration in response to the 1970s energy crisis, underscoring its historical role in the nation’s energy strategy. The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees the reserve under the Naval Petroleum Reserves Production Act, which mandates an “expeditious program of competitive leasing” while also requiring safeguards for key surface resources.
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This proposed plan also seeks to reverse recent regulations, specifically targeting the planned rescission of a 2024 rule that had restricted leasing in the reserve. The DOI’s move is consistent with Executive Order 14153 and Secretary’s Order 3422, both of which prioritize the maximization of Alaska’s resource potential for energy and economic security.
The draft analysis is now open for public review and comment through the BLM National NEPA Register. Interested parties can submit their comments online via the “Participate Now” button on the register. The public comment period will close on July 1, 2025.
This decision is expected to ignite renewed debate between proponents of domestic energy production and environmental conservation groups who have long advocated for the protection of the NPR-A’s sensitive ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
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