Center for Energy & Environment

Policy Priorities

U.S. energy independence
A secure and resilient U.S. energy sector
A predictable and efficient permitting process
A level playing field for all sources of energy to compete
Increased energy exports and international energy dominance
Realistic, fact-based, and economically viable solutions for complex environmental problems
Energy policies that help America’s most vulnerable and end energy poverty—ensuring that every American has access to affordable, reliable energy

American ingenuity and entrepreneurialism have transformed American energy. When our Nation thrived under America First leadership, the United States achieved a generational strategic goal and moved from a position of chronic energy dependency to true energy independence—providing abundant and affordable energy to American homes and communities and opening new vistas of American dreams and opportunities. Our American energy sector achieved something else as well: in attaining new heights of innovation and development, the United States led the world in generating opportunity, security, and environmental progress. The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) will advance policies to safeguard the freedoms and opportunities presented by our energy potential and rebuild our Nation’s energy independence while advancing clean air and clean water and helping make the greatest economy in the world work for all Americans.

Team

Ambassador Carla Sands

Vice Chair, Center for Energy & Environment

David Vasquez

Senior Policy Analyst for the Center for American Prosperity, the Center for Energy & Environment

Latest

Issue Brief | June 16, 2025

Getting New Jersey’s Electricity Costs Under Control

New Jersey’s electricity ratepayers have had a hard row in recent years, with the most recent blow being double-digit electricity rate increases announced in February 2025.

Op-Ed | June 16, 2025

America Must Lead the Race to Seabed Minerals

Beneath our oceans lies a wealth of untapped potential: minerals essential for national security, technology and energy independence.

Statement | May 8, 2025

Ambassador Carla Sands Supports Senate Joint Resolution 50

Op-Ed | March 19, 2025

The Green New Deal Is Gone: President Trump’s Golden Age of Energy Is Here

If there is one thing that can be said about President Trump’s joint address to Congress earlier this month, it is this: promises made, promises kept.

Op-Ed | October 2, 2024

Beijing’s nickel glut leaves America penniless

America’s vast mineral wealth has underwritten our nation’s evolution into an economic and military superpower. From the gold rush that fueled the race westward almost 200 years ago to the iron ore and coal miners that powered the construction of bridges, skyscrapers, rail lines and military vessels, mining has been central to American prosperity.