The Biden administration’s restrictions on oil drilling in Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve are set to be repealed under plans unveiled by the Trump administration, aiming to boost oil and gas development in the region.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum announced the policy reversal during a town hall in Utqiagvik, Alaska, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to expanding energy production. This move supports President Trump’s broader executive order to increase resource extraction—including oil, natural gas, and minerals—in Alaska.
The National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska (NPR-A), spanning 23 million acres, contains an estimated 8.7 billion barrels of recoverable oil. The proposed rollback targets a 2024 Biden-era rule that designated 13 million acres within the reserve as “special areas” with leasing restrictions, effectively limiting drilling activities.
Forecasts suggest oil output from the reserve could surge to 139,600 barrels per day by fiscal year 2033, a substantial increase from 15,800 barrels per day in fiscal year 2023. This growth potential has been hampered by the previous administration’s regulations, posing challenges for companies such as ConocoPhillips, Santos, Repsol, and Armstrong Oil & Gas, all active in the region.
Dustin Meyer, senior vice president for Policy, Economics and Regulatory Affairs at the American Petroleum Institute (API), praised the administration’s decision, stating, “API applauds the administration for taking action to repeal the misguided NPR-A rule and fully leverage Alaska’s National Petroleum Reserve as a driver of revenue, economic growth and energy security. Our industry is committed to the safe, responsible development of Alaska’s vast energy resources, and we look forward to working with Secretary Burgum to advance American energy dominance.”
The announcement was warmly received by local residents and officials, including Senator Dan Sullivan and Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy, who attended the town hall. Energy Secretary Chris Wright expressed optimism about increased oil development prospects while criticizing previous policies for limiting the reserve’s potential. Rex Rock Sr., chairman of the Arctic Slope Regional Corporation, also voiced opposition to the 2024 restrictions, citing a lack of local support.
However, environmental advocates have raised concerns about preserving the Arctic’s pristine landscapes and wildlife, warning against further fossil fuel extraction amid global climate challenges.
The repeal proposal will enter a 60-day public comment period, paving the way for potential rapid policy reversal and new leasing opportunities in the reserve. Conservation groups that backed the original protections have signaled intentions to challenge the change in federal court.
