WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of the Interior has unveiled a comprehensive strategy to expand domestic energy production, including a long-term schedule for offshore oil and gas lease sales and updated rules governing commingling practices for petroleum development. Both measures are part of the implementation of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1), which aims to bolster U.S. energy independence, streamline regulations, and promote responsible resource development.
Expanding Offshore Energy Development
The Department’s new plan outlines at least 30 lease sales in the Gulf of America and six additional sales in Alaska’s Cook Inlet through 2032, underscoring the administration’s commitment to securing a stable and reliable domestic energy supply.
“The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is a landmark step toward unleashing America’s energy potential,” said Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we’re putting in place a bold, long-term program that strengthens American Energy Dominance, creates good-paying jobs and ensures we continue to responsibly develop our offshore resources.”
The Gulf of America remains a cornerstone of U.S. energy production, accounting for roughly 14–15% of total crude oil output. By establishing a predictable leasing schedule, the Department aims to encourage continued investment in deepwater infrastructure, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs and generating tens of billions of dollars annually in gross domestic product and federal and state revenues.
Alaska’s Cook Inlet is also central to the administration’s strategy. Positioned as both an energy hub and a gateway to the Arctic, Cook Inlet development promises to reduce reliance on foreign energy imports while creating new jobs and strengthening local economies. The Department described the region as essential to long-term U.S. energy security.
The first scheduled sale under the new framework, titled “Big Beautiful Gulf 1,” is set for December 10, 2025, with the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management expected to publish its final notice at least 30 days beforehand.
Updated Commingling Policy for Safer, More Efficient Energy Production
Alongside the leasing plan, the Interior Department announced updated oil and gas commingling rules to modernize production standards and increase operational efficiency. Commingling — the process of combining petroleum streams from multiple sources into a single system for measurement and processing — plays a critical role in maximizing resource recovery.
The new regulations, developed by the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), are designed to simplify approval processes while maintaining strict safety and environmental standards.
“From day one, the Trump administration has worked to cut red tape, strengthen America’s Energy Dominance and ensure responsible resource development,” Burgum said. “We’re delivering on that by aligning our regulations with the law, streamlining approval processes and giving operators a clear framework rooted in sound science and engineering.”
Key changes include:
- BSEE Final Rule: Establishes clearer expectations for offshore commingling practices, prioritizing well integrity, safety, and ultimate resource recovery.
- BLM Interim Guidance: Expands commingling authority for onshore operations on public and tribal lands while full regulatory updates are finalized. Field offices are instructed to process applications quickly and consistently under the Act’s provisions.
Balancing Energy Growth With Environmental Stewardship
The initiatives align with Executive Order “Unleashing American Energy” and Secretary Burgum’s broader agenda to strengthen domestic energy production while safeguarding long-term resource value. Officials emphasized that regulatory reforms will remove unnecessary barriers without compromising safety, environmental protections, or taxpayer interests.
Together, the offshore leasing plan and commingling updates mark a significant shift toward predictable, efficient, and responsible energy development. By providing clarity for industry stakeholders while prioritizing U.S.-based production, the Department aims to bolster national energy security and maintain America’s position as a global energy leader.
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