The Trump administration is launching a major push to expand offshore oil and natural gas production in the Gulf of America, reversing Biden-era restrictions that had stalled domestic energy development, The Center Square reports.
According to The Center Square, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has directed the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) to resume offshore lease sales, with the first notice of sale expected in June. This marks the first such sale under President Trump’s second term and represents a major shift in energy policy from the previous administration.
“By continuing to expand offshore capabilities, the United States ensures affordable energy for consumers, strengthens domestic industry and reinforces its role as an energy superpower,” the Interior Department stated. Officials added that opening the Outer Continental Shelf is expected to generate tens of thousands of high-paying jobs.
BOEM has released new data showing a significant increase in oil and gas reserves in the Gulf of America.
The updated analysis, which examined more than 1,300 fields and 37,000 reservoirs, estimates a 22.6% increase in recoverable reserves since 2021. That includes 5.77 billion barrels of oil and 7.15 trillion cubic feet of natural gas — adding up to 7.04 billion barrels of oil equivalent.
“This new data confirms what we’ve known all along – America is sitting on a treasure trove of energy, and under President Trump’s leadership, we’re unlocking it,” Burgum said.
Shell Offshore Inc., the Gulf’s leading deep-water operator, also announced it has begun production at Dover, a site originally discovered under Trump’s first term in 2018.
The project is expected to add up to 20,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, strengthening U.S. energy supply from the region.
The Gulf of America currently accounts for 14% of the nation’s oil production and ranks third nationwide for volume produced. The BOEM noted that oil and gas activities in the Gulf have already generated billions in revenue for federal and state governments, funding everything from infrastructure and education to wildlife conservation.
“The Gulf’s role in powering our nation is unmatched,” said BOEM Gulf of America Regional Director Dr. James Kendall. “These updated estimates reaffirm the Gulf’s vital role in ensuring a reliable, affordable domestic energy supply.”
The Trump administration maintains that expanding offshore leasing not only boosts economic growth but also strengthens national security by reducing dependence on foreign energy producers.