US presidential candidates differ on energy policies

Significance

A Kamala Harris administration would likely avoid a direct confrontation with fossil fuel production, instead relying on an accelerated energy transition to reduce demand for conventional fuels. A Donald Trump administration would attempt to use deregulation to reduce fossil fuel prices.

Impacts

• If Trump slows renewable energy development, this will likely lead to higher electricity generation costs, undermining US competitiveness.
• A hostile permitting environment for offshore wind under Trump would cause significant damage to the emergent sector.
• US oil and gas production levels will be largely determined by international developments and pricing rather than domestic policies.