US DOE is in the news for testing microreactors and pushing critical minerals reserves amid global energy chaos. Key player in US energy policy.
A historic winter storm has caused at least 38 deaths across 14 US states, with widespread power outages and dangerous cold temperatures. Emergency responses are ongoing, and the storm's impact is expected to persist with more snow and freezing conditions into early February.
The US government has launched Project Vault, a $12 billion strategic reserve of critical minerals funded by a $10 billion loan from the US Export-Import Bank and $1.67 billion in private capital. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on China’s dominance in rare earth minerals, securing vital materials for manufacturing vehicles, electronics, and defense technologies. Over 55 countries are collaborating to diversify supply chains.
As of late January 2026, U.S. District Judge Brian Murphy has issued a preliminary injunction allowing the Vineyard Wind offshore project near Massachusetts to resume construction despite the Trump administration's halt over national security concerns. The project is 95% complete and partially operational, expected to power over 400,000 homes. Similar rulings have allowed other East Coast wind projects to continue.
The U.S. has let the New START treaty expire, prompting fears of an arms race. The Trump administration is considering expanding nuclear arsenals and resuming testing, while also exploring waste management and new nuclear technologies amid global tensions.
Valar Atomics' small Ward microreactor was flown on a C-17 aircraft to Hill Air Force Base in Utah, marking a significant step in deploying nuclear power for military and remote applications. The event aligns with US efforts to expand nuclear energy under recent government initiatives.
As of March 13, 2026, the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed due to ongoing conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. Iranian missile and drone attacks, alongside US and Israeli strikes, have halted tanker traffic through this vital waterway, which carries about 20% of global oil. The closure has caused surging oil prices, soaring insurance costs, and widespread shipping disruptions, with major powers considering naval escorts to reopen the route.
As of March 12, 2026, Iran has claimed responsibility for attacks disrupting oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for 20% of global oil. This has driven oil prices near $100 per barrel, pushing US gas prices above $3 per gallon nationwide for the first time since 2023. The US and allies face supply constraints amid ongoing conflict and strategic reserve releases.
Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz persists amid ongoing conflict, but recent reports indicate some non-Iranian ships, including Pakistan's Karachi, have passed with AIS signals on, suggesting limited diplomatic negotiations. The situation remains tense as Iran continues to threaten closure, impacting global oil supplies.
The Biden administration has authorized the restart of offshore oil pipelines off California, reversing state bans amid supply concerns caused by global tensions and the war in Iran. California officials oppose the move, citing legal and environmental issues, while the federal government emphasizes energy security and military readiness.
The Trump administration ordered the restart of the Santa Ynez offshore oil pipeline in California, citing national security and supply concerns. This move, opposed by California officials, follows a 2015 spill and legal battles over environmental regulations. The restart aims to address supply disruptions caused by California's restrictions and global oil market pressures.
The Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Ohio is being transformed into the PORTS Technology Campus, featuring a 10-gigawatt data center and up to 10 gigawatts of new power generation, including natural gas. The project aims to support AI, fusion energy, and national security research, creating thousands of jobs.
Vermont's climate superfund law, designed to fund climate adaptation projects, faces legal challenges from industry groups claiming it oversteps state authority. The law, inspired by federal legislation, aims to hold polluters accountable but is contested by the federal government and industry groups, with potential implications for other states considering similar laws.
Since March 2026, Iran-linked hackers have targeted US critical infrastructure by compromising programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used in water, energy, and government sectors. The FBI, CISA, NSA, and others have issued urgent warnings about disruptions and financial losses. Separately, Russian APT28 has hijacked thousands of routers globally to intercept credentials, escalating cyber threats.
State officials are calling for a court order to stop Sable Offshore from using a pipeline through Gaviota State Park. The pipeline has been idle since 2015 after a major spill, but the Biden administration has invoked the Defense Production Act to restart operations, citing national security and energy needs. Legal battles are intensifying as California authorities oppose the federal move, arguing it oversteps state rights. Sable has already produced over 1 million barrels and plans to increase output with new wells. The case highlights tensions between federal authority and state regulations amid ongoing energy security concerns.
Iran's internal power struggles are intensifying, with the Revolutionary Guards gaining influence and sidelining moderate negotiators. This shift is affecting Iran's willingness to engage in peace talks with the US, as hardliners control key decisions amid ongoing regional tensions.