The Department of the Interior announced a new order called 'Unleashing American Offshore Energy.' It directs the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management to end the current Biden 2024–2029 offshore oil and gas leasing program and replace it with a larger 11th program by October 2026. As part of this, the Department is releasing a draft proposal for the new leasing plan.
This move shows the Trump administration's focus on increasing U.S. energy production by replacing the smallest offshore leasing plan with one that meets the country's growing energy needs.
The new proposal for the 2026–2031 offshore oil and gas leasing program aims to strengthen U.S. energy independence and keep domestic oil and gas production going. The plan includes up to 34 potential offshore lease sales across 21 of 27 existing areas in the Outer Continental Shelf, covering about 1.27 billion acres. This includes 21 areas off the coast of Alaska, seven in the Gulf of Mexico, and six along the Pacific coast. The plan also includes the creation of a new area in the South-Central Gulf of Mexico.
This action follows Executive Order 14154 and supports Secretary’s Order 3418, both called 'Unleashing American Energy.' These orders tell all Interior Department offices to speed up responsible energy development according to federal law.
Executive Statement
According to Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, offshore oil and gas production does not happen overnight. It takes years of planning, investment, and hard work before barrels reach the market. The Biden administration slammed the brakes on offshore oil and gas leasing and crippled the long-term pipeline of America’s offshore production. By moving forward with the development of a robust, forward-thinking leasing plan, they are ensuring that America’s offshore industry stays strong, their workers stay employed, and their nation remains energy dominant for decades to come.
