President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the US Defense Department to purchase electricity generated from coal-fired power plants. The order also allocates $175 million to upgrade coal power infrastructure across five states, marking a significant policy shift toward fossil fuel energy sources for federal operations.

The directive aims to support the struggling coal industry while ensuring energy security for military installations. Coal power plants in states including West Virginia, Wyoming, and Kentucky are expected to benefit from the federal investment. The move reverses previous administrations' efforts to transition military energy consumption toward renewable sources.

Industry analysts note the policy could provide temporary relief to coal producers facing declining demand. However, questions remain about long-term sustainability given ongoing market pressures from cheaper natural gas and renewable energy alternatives. The defense sector's coal reliance may face legal challenges from environmental groups concerned about emissions and climate impacts.