Energy chief Wright says orders empowering coal plants helped keep lights on during winter storm

The Trump administration says its emergency orders keeping coal-fired plants running helped prevent blackouts during the recent cold snap. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said Friday that natural gas and coal provided most of the power. Critics argue that wind and solar also played a crucial role and that keeping coal plants open could cost billions. Deputy Energy Secretary James Danly contrasts this approach with past storms, calling it a “new way of doing business.” Some officials and clean energy advocates argue that renewables saved consumers money and helped maintain power, especially in regions with significant investments in wind and solar.