U.S. Interior Department Launches Comprehensive Offshore Oil and Gas Leasing Program

Trump Administration Unveils Proposed Offshore Energy Expansion Plan

On November 20, 2025, the U.S. Department of the Interior issued a Secretary's Order entitled 'Unleashing American Offshore Energy,' signaling a dramatic reversal in federal offshore energy development policy. Under this directive from BOEM's Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), BOEM must repeal Biden 2024-2029 National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program and create an 11th National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program with final approval anticipated around October 2026.

The new program represents a dramatic expansion in offshore leasing opportunities, with its initial proposal making more than 85% of estimated technically recoverable Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) oil and gas resources available for leasing during five years following program approval compared with 65% during Biden administration era - something Trump administration described as their smallest offshore leasing plan ever published by U.S administrations.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that this action reflected the administration's dedication to restoring American energy dominance. Burgum pointed out that offshore oil and gas production takes years of careful planning, investment, and hard work before reaching market. Unfortunately, during Biden administration lease terms for offshore production were restricted drastically, crippling long-term pipeline of production for America offshore production. By moving forward with creating an innovative leasing plan we ensure America's offshore industry stays strong, our workers remain employed, and that America remains energy dominant for years to come.'

Development Process and Environmental Review.

On November 20, the Interior Department unveiled the first of three proposals that will be created before final approval of its 2026-2031 program. While including planning areas in this initial proposal does not guarantee they will appear in final programs or be offered for lease sale, each lease sale will undergo further environmental assessment and public comment before being scheduled for sale or lease sale.

This action implements Executive Order 14154 and supplements Secretary's Order 3418, both entitled 'Unleashing American Energy.' These orders instruct all Interior Department bureaus and offices to accelerate responsible energy development consistent with federal law. According to Interior officials, this new leasing program seeks to open up opportunities for offshore investment and job creation while reinforcing America's role as a global energy leader and ensure a stable energy supply into the future.

Jarrod Agen, executive director of the National Energy Dominance Council, described this policy shift as essential to long-term energy security. Agen noted that offshore oil and gas development requires long-term vision, steady policymaking and the trust of companies looking to invest in American energy resources - three qualities undermined by former President Biden's failed leasing policies that undermined this confidence over years. By reinstating a real leasing plan now we're helping restore energy security while protecting American jobs while strengthening America's ability to lead in energy for decades ahead.'