Trump invokes Defense Production Act to boost oil, coal and energy infrastructure

The Hill
by Rachel Frazin
April 21, 2026
2 min read

Quick Insights

The Bottom Line

President Trump invoked the Defense Production Act to boost oil, gas, and coal production.

How This Affects You

This action aims to increase energy production, potentially affecting energy prices and availability for consumers.

AI Summary

President Trump on Monday invoked the Defense Production Act (DPA) to accelerate the production of oil, gas, and coal. This wartime authority grants the President power to increase output of items deemed vital for national security. The Trump administration issued five memos applying the DPA to oil, coal, natural gas infrastructure and exports, and electric grid equipment. This action aims to boost domestic energy production and exports, potentially impacting energy markets and environmental policy. The DPA allows the White House to direct industries to prioritize certain orders and allocate materials to achieve these goals.

What's Being Done

President Trump issued five memos applying the DPA to oil, coal, natural gas infrastructure, exports, and electric grid equipment.

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