Secretary Wright asked the NPC to launch a Future Energy Systems study that will explore how America’s oil and natural gas resources can be harnessed to strengthen national security, support economic growth, and provide energy for families.
Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management
September 22, 2025
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America’s energy future is at a crossroads. With rising demand at home and abroad, the United States faces the challenge and opportunity of ensuring reliable, affordable power while cementing our position as a global energy leader.
To address this challenge, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright has asked the National Petroleum Council (NPC) to launch a comprehensive Future Energy Systems study. This strategic effort will explore how America’s vast oil and natural gas resources can be harnessed to strengthen national security, support economic growth, and provide ample energy for American families.
This initiative builds on President Donald Trump’s recent directives including executive orders to declare a national energy emergency, unleash American energy, and establish the National Energy Dominance Council. These actions underscore the critical role domestic energy is to our Nation’s prosperity and security.
What the study will cover
The Future Energy Systems study will initially consist of two subcomponents:
- Oil and Natural Gas Infrastructure Permitting
NPC will update and expand its recommendations from the 2019 Dynamic Delivery report. The work will focus on revising permitting policies to reflect current legislation and regulations. The goal? Practical fixes to cut through red tape and speed up the approval process for critical energy infrastructure projects. - Gas-Electric Coordination
Growing reliance on natural gas for power generation, coupled with increasing demand for electricity, is straining pipelines in several U.S. regions. The NPC will study these challenges, evaluate their impacts, and recommend meaningful solutions to better align the gas and electric industries.
Why it matters
Energy isn’t just about keeping the lights on; it’s the backbone of our economy and our security. By tackling permitting roadblocks and improving gas-electric coordination, this study aims to secure energy access for American families and businesses for years to come.
The Role of the NPC
The NPC is a federal advisory committee that provides information, advice, and recommendations on matters related to the oil and natural gas industries and energy policy to the Secretary of Energy.
The Future Energy Systems study is expected to be presented at the 135th NPC Meeting, which will be held in December 2025 in Washington, D.C.
For more information, see the Study Request Letter from Secretary Wright to the NPC.