The House Oversight and Accountability Committee is currently investigating Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry’s office for its alleged collaboration with environmental groups in advocating for the global shutdown of coal power. This probe, led by Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.), is examining the extent of Kerry’s interactions with organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC).
The investigation was initiated following the emergence of emails that revealed extensive communication between Kerry’s office and environmental groups. These discussions included strategies to oppose coal power and join the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA), which the U.S. formally joined in December 2022. Kerry, speaking at the COP28 United Nations climate summit in Dubai, emphasized the importance of phasing out unabated coal to achieve carbon pollution-free electricity by 2035.
Comer has raised concerns about the potential influence of non-governmental organizations on U.S. foreign and energy policies, particularly those coordinating with foreign actors. He pointed out that the NRDC, which has significant operations in China, claims to assist China’s decarbonization efforts.
Despite the U.S. still relying on coal-fired power plants for 20% of its electricity in 2022, Comer’s letter to Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the need for clarity on confidential information related to U.S. foreign policy, energy policy, and national security being shared with these groups.
The committee has requested various documents and communications related to the State Department’s decision to join the PPCA, along with a staff-level briefing on the topic. The State Department, NRDC, and PPCA have yet to respond to these requests.
This investigation reflects the committee’s broader oversight into Kerry’s office and its role in global climate negotiations, highlighting concerns about transparency and the influence of environmental groups on U.S. policy decisions.