The road ahead: How should the green business sector respond to Donald Trump?

On 20th January, US President Donald Trump declared a national energy emergency through an executive order aimed at bolstering domestic fossil fuel production and expediting energy infrastructure projects. This directive seeks to enhance energy independence by streamlining regulations and prioritising traditional energy sources. For businesses operating in the green energy and sustainability space, this presents a series of challenges.

The suspension or revision of environmental regulations to favour fossil fuel development may create an unpredictable regulatory environment for renewable energy projects. Businesses might face delays or increased scrutiny in permitting processes, complicating project planning and execution. Additionally, the US administration's focus on fossil fuels could lead to a reallocation of federal funds and incentives away from renewable energy initiatives. This shift may deter global investors seeking stable policy support, making it more difficult for green energy companies to secure financing. 

In response to these challenges, green energy companies should consider adapting their communication strategies to maintain confidence and momentum. Proactively communicating the long-term economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy will be crucial. Engaging with stakeholders, including policymakers, customers, and the public, can help build support and counteract negative perceptions stemming from the executive order. 

Transparency with investors will also be key — clearly articulating how the company plans to navigate the evolving policy landscape can reassure current and potential investors of the company’s resilience. Emphasising the decreasing costs and increasing competitiveness of renewable energy technologies could be key in attracting investors focused on long-term returns. 

While President Trump's energy emergency executive order poses significant challenges for the green energy sector, businesses can navigate this complex environment through strategic communication, adaptive investment approaches, and by leveraging support at state and local levels in the US, and in other international markets, including the UK and EU.