Driving energy security, resilience and leadership for a changing world
As the world gathers in Milan today for Gastech 2025 – the largest global meeting for natural gas, LNG, hydrogen, climate technologies, and AI – the debate over energy security has never been more urgent. Ahead of his keynote speech, Secretary Doug Burgum, the 55th US Secretary of the Interior, and Chairman of the National Energy Dominance Council (NEDC), spoke with Gastech News to discuss how America is reinforcing energy security and expanding its role in global energy through bold, future-focused policies that address immediate energy needs while laying the foundation for resilient and diversified energy systems.
Secretary Burgum, could you share your vision about the National Energy Dominance Council and how it is tackling the critical need for reliable, diversified and affordable supply of energy?
In line with President Trump’s Unleashing American Energy policy, the National Energy Dominance Council (NEDC) is committed to working collaboratively to unlock America’s full potential in energy and economic development while demonstrating to the world the power of America’s natural resources and innovation. Together, we will ensure that our policies reflect the needs of our communities, strengthen American economic security and drive innovation that will keep the US at the forefront of energy and environmental leadership.
Among the key mandates of the Council are expanding energy production and addressing cost barriers, as well as cutting red tape, enhancing private sector investments, and advancing innovation. This includes encouraging energy exploration and production on federal lands and waters to meet the energy needs of America and strengthen the position of United States as a global energy leader, and establishing our position as the leading producer and processor of non-fuel minerals, including rare earth minerals. American energy leadership is vital not only for our nation’s economic and national security, but also for the stability and reliability of the global industry.
Among the mandates of the NEDC are cutting red tape, enhancing private sector investment, and eliminating unnecessary regulation. How important are these mandates?
Clear and consistent regulation is essential, but unnecessary bureaucracy slows progress and weakens competitiveness. The NEDC’s work to streamline processes and unlock private capital is about moving projects from concept to reality more quickly. Cutting red tape doesn’t lower standards – it creates clarity, reduces duplication, and focuses oversight where it matters most.
For LNG and other energy infrastructure, speed is vital. Every year of delay in bringing export capacity or transmission lines online is a year of lost opportunity – for jobs, for growth, and for energy security. By creating an environment that attracts private investment, we unleash innovation and scale that government alone could never deliver. At Interior, we’ve seen that when permitting is transparent and timely, projects attract financing and deliver real benefits. The NEDC’s mandate is about aligning regulation with reality – safeguarding communities and the environment while reinforcing America’s energy leadership. That builds confidence not just at home, but among allies who rely on reliable energy flows.
Energy security has returned as a top global priority. Why is LNG so central to this conversation?
Energy security is national security. As demand rises, especially in Asia and Europe, LNG provides the flexibility, scalability, and resilience needed to keep systems stable under pressure. In the US, we’ve seen how LNG exports can support allies in times of crisis. America’s LNG industry played a critical role in helping Europe reduce its dependence on Russian energy, with LNG exports to Europe rising 141% in 2022, and continuing to increase to fill the gap.
The numbers tell the story: the LNG market is projected to grow beyond 4.7 trillion cubic metres by mid-century.
What kind of demand growth do you see for natural gas and LNG, and how will the US champion that growth?
Global demand for gas is set to remain strong for decades. LNG demand alone is forecast to rise by more than 50% by 2040, led by Asia-Pacific, where urbanisation and industrialisation are driving growth. Europe will also rely heavily on LNG as it diversifies supply and reduces dependence on pipeline gas. The US is uniquely placed to support that demand. We’re scaling export capacity, investing in resilient infrastructure, and building new trade partnerships. By combining secure production, competitive pricing, and innovation in areas like LNG, US gas will remain both a commercial and strategic asset on the global stage.
The US is now one of the world’s largest LNG exporters. How does that shape your strategy at the Department of the Interior?
Our department manages one-fifth of America’s land and offshore resources. That puts us at the heart of production, permitting, and national security. Our strategy is to align strong domestic production with smart oversight – so we meet America’s energy needs while strengthening allies and contributing to global stability. We’re investing in offshore development, unlocking onshore reserves, and streamlining permitting so critical infrastructure can move forward faster.
Finally, what is your message to the global energy industry at Gastech 2025?
My message is simple: secure, reliable energy is the foundation of economic strength and geopolitical influence. The United States is committed to being a stable partner in global energy markets. In Milan, I’ll share how our policies on leasing, infrastructure, and innovation are delivering that stability – not just for Americans, but for allies worldwide.
Italy is a fitting host. As a gateway between Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean, it sits at the centre of Europe’s diversification strategy. Milan is a hub for industry and innovation, making it the perfect stage for these conversations.
I hope we leave Milan with clarity and pragmatism. The energy transition won’t succeed through ambition alone. It requires secure supply, strong investment, and real partnerships. If we get it right, we can deliver energy that is affordable, reliable, and lower-carbon – not just for some nations, but for the entire world.
