The IEA faces criticism from Trump’s administration for its shift toward clean energy. At a Washington event, Republican and oil industry representatives addressed the issue.For over 50 years, the Paris-based IEA has guided energy policy for industrialized nations.
As member countries expand renewables and pursue low-carbon policies, the IEA has adapted accordingly.The IEA’s former oil market chief criticized the agency’s focus on the global energy transition in a report released Wednesday, urging it to prioritize oil and gas supply concerns.The oil industry, Republicans, and Trump have criticized the IEA for prioritizing the global energy transition, arguing it drives up energy costs.
Trump’s campaign last year targeted the IEA’s climate focus, claiming it could be addressed if he were president. As the U.S. funds a quarter of the IEA’s budget, Trump has influence over its policies, which have also upset global oil producers like Saudi Arabia.
The report, Energy Delusions, written by former IEA oil market head Neil Atkinson and Mark Mills of the National Center for Energy Analytics, challenges the IEA’s assumptions on oil output, electric vehicle adoption, and emerging market growth.
Launched in Washington alongside key Republicans, the report argues that the IEA’s predictions could harm global economic and energy security.A congressional report led by Barrasso,criticizing IEA for its green focus, refused to reply when questioned if he thought IEA chief should be replaced, but rather said the agency risks losing its importance.
