Trump Reaffirms Backing for Fossil Fuels and Nuclear Power

U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday reiterated his preference for traditional energy sources, declaring that “fossil fuel and nuclear energy is what works.” In brief remarks, he added that he hopes countries “get back to fossil fuel,” arguing that investments in wind power are harming their economies. Trump’s comments come as nuclear plants supply roughly one-fifth of U.S. electricity and operate at about a 92% capacity factor, one of the highest reliability rates among generating technologies. His remarks underscore the administration’s continued support for coal, oil, natural gas and nuclear generation over newer renewable options such as wind.