NABTU Urges Trump to Reverse Energy Project Cuts Amid Job Concerns

Key Energy Projects Halted: Concerns Arise for American Workforce

Washington, D.C. – On June 3, 2025, major changes in the energy sector were announced that could have significant ramifications for U.S. workers and the broader economic landscape. The Department of Energy has decided to cancel 24 projects previously funded by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, raising concerns among industry leaders and labor unions.

North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) President Sean McGarvey expressed deep concern about the immediate impact on the construction workforce. "The Department of Energy’s announcement to terminate 24 awards issued by the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations (OCED) is the last thing blue-collar American construction workers need to hear right now," McGarvey stated.

The cancellation, amounting to over $3 billion in energy projects, comes amidst a declining employment market within the construction industry. The decision is perceived as a significant blow to thousands of skilled laborers who were either actively employed on these projects or preparing to join them. As a consequence, many of these workers may find themselves seeking unemployment benefits rather than contributing to critical infrastructure development.

In an era where energy demands in the U.S. are steadily climbing, McGarvey highlighted the strategic importance of maintaining a robust energy infrastructure, particularly in light of global competition in technology sectors with nations like China. "Cutting more than $3 billion worth of major energy projects – on top of an already softening construction employment market – sends a stunning and troubling signal to thousands of these skilled workers," he added.

There is a call to action directed at President Trump, urging him to reconsider this decision. McGarvey appealed for the continuation of these projects, emphasizing the need for energy development that supports both national interests and economic leadership on a global scale. “On behalf of America’s skilled, blue-collar workforce, we respectfully urge President Trump to reverse this decision and let construction workers and NABTU’s highly skilled members do what they do best: build the energy infrastructure our country needs—and help us defeat China to keep America on top of the world’s economy.”

The halt in these projects reflects broader concerns about how policy decisions can impact both the domestic workforce and America's competitive edge in advanced technology and energy sectors.

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