WASHINGTON, D.C.: Chris Wright, President-elect Donald Trump's pick to lead the U.S. Energy Department, emphasized the importance of expanding domestic energy production, including liquefied natural gas (LNG) and nuclear power, during his Senate confirmation hearing this week.

Wright, formerly CEO of Liberty Energy, described fossil fuels as a cornerstone for combating global poverty, which he called a more pressing issue than the "distant" threat of climate change. Once confirmed, the 60-year-old engineer is expected to step down from his position at Liberty.

"The solution to climate change is to evolve our energy system," Wright told the Senate Energy Committee. "Do I wish we could make faster progress? Absolutely." He highlighted his support for alternative energy sources like small nuclear reactors and geothermal power but criticized solar and wind energy as insufficient to meet global demands.

Wright argued for increased LNG exports and commercial nuclear power to boost global competitiveness and reduce energy costs domestically. "Previous administrations have viewed energy as a liability instead of the immense national asset that it is," he said.

Despite President Joe Biden's restrictions on federal drilling and LNG export approvals, U.S. LNG exports hit a record high in 2023, and the country remains the world's largest oil producer. Wright signaled his intent to reverse Biden-era policies, aligning with Trump's broader agenda to fast-track energy infrastructure projects.

During the hearing, protesters disrupted proceedings, raising concerns about fossil fuels' role in global warming and recent wildfires. Wright called the wildfires "heartbreaking" but reiterated his stance that concerns over fires were often exaggerated to justify climate policies.

Senator Martin Heinrich, the committee's top Democrat, cautioned against rolling back clean energy initiatives under Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, which has spurred nearly $500 billion in investments in renewable energy and related jobs.

Wright is expected to collaborate with Doug Burgum, Trump's nominee for interior secretary, on a new energy council to remove regulatory barriers to energy projects. Trump has also suggested declaring a national energy emergency to expedite permitting for power infrastructure.

The hearing highlighted a shift in energy policy, with Trump's administration likely to prioritize fossil fuels and nuclear energy while addressing the growing power demand and reexamining Biden's climate-focused legislation.