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E&E News: Republicans pitch $2.5B mineral reserve
The reserve would also craft a list of critical minerals and materials annually in collaboration with other federal agencies, including the Department of Energy and the U.S. Geological Survey. They already produce their own separate lists. Abigail Hunter, executive director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, applauded the package of bills, calling it a […]
RealClear Energy Op-Ed: Permitting Reform: A Strategic Imperative for U.S. National Security and Global Competitiveness
This op-ed originally appeared in RealClear Energy on December 12, 2024. Read the original. By: Michelle Howard and Paul Segal Permitting reform has swiftly risen to the forefront in Washington as a pressing national security priority. The United States is grappling with the dual challenges of escalating energy demand and mounting global competition, particularly from China. Despite […]
STATEMENT: SAFE Welcomes Bipartisan Critical Minerals Legislation from House Select Committee on Competition with the CCP
Washington, DC—Responding to the introduction of legislation and a report from the House Select Committee on Competition with the CCP Critical Minerals working group, Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy released the following statement: “America’s security and economic resilience depend on a forward-thinking critical minerals strategy that emphasizes responsible domestic […]
NPR: China bans rare mineral exports to the U.S.
NPR’s Ayesha Rascoe talks to Abigail Hunter of the nonpartisan organization SAFE about the Chinese government’s recent ban on exports of rare minerals to the U.S. AYESHA RASCOE, HOST: Gallium, germanium, antimony – those are the minerals China says it’s banning from export to the U.S. Those, along with what are called superhard materials – […]
WEBINAR: The Security Case for Permitting Reform
As the United States faces growing energy demands, the importance of modernizing and expanding our nation’s energy infrastructure cannot be overstated. Permitting reform is increasingly recognized as a matter of national security and highlights a critical deficiency in the United States’ ability to get things done. This topic is particularly urgent for the U.S. military, […]
S&P Global: Experts consider US approach to Africa’s critical minerals under Trump
In addition to supporting the Lobito Corridor, the US government’s International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) is invested in a portfolio of African critical mineral projects aimed at delivering impactful development and contributing to US strategic goals of fostering expanded and diversified supply chains. According to Abigail Hunter, the Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical […]
Washington Examiner Op-Ed: The US must beat China on critical minerals and advanced manufacturing
This op-ed originally appeared in the Washington Examiner on November 27, 2024. Read the original. By: Robbie Diamond and Morgan Ortagus The results of the 2024 presidential election presented an opportunity for the United States to chart a bold course in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time: China’s dominance in critical minerals and advanced manufacturing. […]
Inside EPA: Permit Bill Backers Ramp Up Late-Hour Appeals For Lame-Duck Passage
Meanwhile, the national security-focused group Securing American’s Future Energy (SAFE) has also been meeting with lawmakers, and it is circulating a Nov. 18 letter to congressional leaders in support of the Manchin-Barrasso measure. The letter, signed by former military officials and some industry representatives, argues current permitting processes are a “preeminent risk” to national security […]
S&P Global: Interview – SAFE sees government-private sector partnerships as vital to strengthening critical minerals supply chains
Concerns regarding potential shortfalls in the availability of critical minerals needed to sustain the global energy transition are spurring greater collaboration between governments and the private sector, Abigail Hunter, the Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, told S&P Global Commodity Insights in a recent interview. SAFE is a US-based non-profit organization dedicated […]
STATEMENT: Chinese Export Controls on Critical Minerals Incompatible with US Interests
Washington, DC—In response to China’s recent anticipated efforts to continue tightening export restrictions on critical metal and mineral inputs essential for dual-use technologies, Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, gave the following statement: “These announcements will keep shocking our system until we take meaningful action. As the US deploys more tariffs, China’s likely retaliation could limit […]
Politico: Congress is back — with a reality check
TRUMP’S MINERAL BONA FIDES: Sen. Marco Rubio and Rep. Mike Waltz, Trump’s reported picks for Secretary of State and national security adviser, respectively, have been some of Congress’ most staunch advocates for reducing reliance on China for critical minerals. Their selections are raising hopes among minerals advocates that the Trump administration will bolster support for U.S. producers. “Rubio and Waltz have both […]
PRESS RELEASE: SAFE Announces New Four-Star Retired Military Members to its Energy Security Leadership Council
Washington, DC— SAFE’s Energy Security Leadership Council (ESLC) has convened for two decades as a peerless, non-partisan coalition of business and retired military leaders committed to advancing energy policies to strengthen the economic and national security of the United States and allied nations. SAFE is proud to announce the addition of the following five new members to the […]
E&E News: Trump’s tariff game could chill the nation’s EV push
Jennifer Hillman, a professor at Georgetown University Law Center, said during a panel discussion last week that Trump’s plan for steep and broadly imposed tariffs would make it harder for the U.S. EV sector to ramp up compared to the rest of the world. That’s because the U.S. has a very limited industry around mining […]
Fastmarkets: US Treasury’s finalized Section 45X a big win for secure supply chains, aluminium manufacturing: sources
Washington, DC-based non-governmental organization Securing America’s Future Energy Foundation (SAFE) also welcomed the finalized tax credit guidance for Section 45X. “The final rule is a game-changer for companies refining, smelting and processing materials at home — especially in today’s low-price market,” Abigail Hunter, executive director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, said in […]
E&E News: Treasury slashes taxes to boost critical minerals
The Treasury rules are being lauded as a boost for processing and smelting but insufficient for a U.S. mining sector that’s lagged for years. Abigail Hunter, executive director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, said the Treasury language supports domestic processing facilities and creates reliable buyers for miners, helping the U.S. compete in the […]
STATEMENT: SAFE Experts Applaud Strengthened Section 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit
Washington, DC — Responding to the release of finalized tax credit guidance for Section 45x of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, to incentivize the production of eligible components within the United States, SAFE experts issued the following statements: Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy “We applaud the administration’s final […]
WEBINAR: “Trading Tensions: Navigating Policy Tools for a Diverse Critical Minerals Supply Chain” Report Release & Panel Discussion
As global demand for critical minerals continues to surge, nations are grappling with supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical tensions. Trade policies have found bipartisan support and are already playing a key role in how the United States addresses the challenges to securing a stable and diverse supply of these resources. Get smart on the issues, […]
Politico: Kamala Harris wants to stockpile critical minerals. Would it work?
“A stockpile could be a failsafe, but not a solution to the underlying problem of China’s current control over critical mineral supplies and markets, and our economic vulnerability from lack of supply security or industrial know-how,” said Abigail Hunter, executive director of the Center for Critical Minerals Strategy at the think tank SAFE. Read the […]
Wall Street Journal: Why Kamala Harris Wants to Stockpile Minerals You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
“A stockpile could be a fail-safe, but not a solution to the underlying problem of China’s current control over critical mineral supplies and markets, and our economic vulnerability from lack of supply security or industrial know-how,” said Abigail Hunter, executive director of the Center for Critical Minerals Strategy at SAFE, an organization that advocates for […]
E&E News: Blinken eyes critical minerals victory in Africa
Abigail Hunter, executive director of the energy security group SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, said the U.S. backing of the Lobito Corridor makes sense. The United States and allies — through the G7 or the Minerals Security Partnership — supporting mines alone cannot put a dent in diversifying supply chains. “If we don’t have […]
NY Times: Biden Administration Proposes Ban on Chinese Software in Vehicles
“Chinese parts, which often enter the United States through suppliers in Mexico or Canada, have the potential to be used for espionage and cyberattacks, some experts warn. ‘Foreign adversaries are cornering and leveraging key supply chains to geopolitical and economic ends,’ Avery Ash, the executive director of the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility, an advocacy group, said […]
E&E News: US and its partners unveil plans for financing minerals projects
“Abigail Hunter, executive director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, said in a statement that while the energy transition away from fossil fuel requires minerals, companies in the U.S continue to face ‘anticompetitive maneuvering from foreign adversaries, and a challenging environment for private capital — two factors that have hamstrung countless promising projects from […]
Financial Times Exclusive: Western nations join forces to break China’s grip on critical minerals
In an exclusive, the Financial Times covered SAFE and the State Department’s announcement at the Mineral Security Partnership Finance Meeting in New York City during the United Nations General Assembly. From the article: “China has retaliated by restricting exports of some minerals, including antimony, an obscure metal used in armour-piercing ammunition and night vision goggles. […]
TechCrunch: First TikTok, now smart cars: How Biden’s new proposed ban will affect US automakers
“The White House issued a long-anticipated proposal Monday that would ban Chinese smart cars because internet-connected vehicles pose a national security risk. The proposal, made amid an escalating trade war, could affect U.S. automakers and suppliers that rely on certain hardware to enable connected vehicle systems. ‘This is both strategic political theater designed to head off […]
STATEMENT: Proposed Rules on Connected Vehicles a Vital Step for National Security
Washington, D.C.— In response to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on how to address the national security implications of connected vehicles with foreign components, Avery Ash, Executive Director of SAFE’s Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (ReMo), issued the following statement: “Foreign adversaries are cornering and leveraging key supply chains to geopolitical and economic ends—with outcomes […]
PRESS RELEASE: MINVEST Meeting Advances Collaboration of Global Public and Private Financial Institutions on Critical Mineral Supplies
National governments participating in the Mineral Security Partnership (MSP), private investors representing over $30 trillion in assets under management, and critical mineral industry leaders gathered during the UN General Assembly in New York for the inaugural convening of the MINVEST network. The global MSP consists of 14 member nations and the European Union, collectively committing […]
BNN Bloomberg: Biden Awards $3 Billion to Boost Domestic Battery Production
“’This is a much-needed investment in our domestic battery manufacturing capacity — a global industrial arena that will define our future competitiveness and energy security,’ said Abigail Hunter, an executive director with SAFE, a Washington think-tank that advocates for US energy independence. ‘We must be strategic and aggressive in our approach.’” Read the full story: […]
E&E News: DOE floats $3B to boost EV, grid batteries
In a statement, Abigail Hunter, executive director of the nonprofit SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, called it a ‘much-needed investment,’ adding that U.S. battery production ‘will define our future competitiveness and energy security.’ DOE said more than half the selected projects signed a labor agreement commitment. Nearly 90 percent of awards ‘are located in […]
STATEMENT: SAFE Applauds DOE’s $3 billion Investment in Battery Manufacturing; Urges Continued Support for Upstream and Midstream Mining and Minerals Capacity
Responding to the Department of Energy’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains awarding $3 billion in grants from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds, Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy issued the following statement: “This is a much-needed investment in our domestic battery manufacturing capacity—a global industrial arena that will define […]
Op-Ed: The Energy Permitting Reform Act is our best shot at advancing critical climate goals
It would be a crucial step toward America realizing its potential as a clean energy superpower, but only if we can put our desires for a perfect policy aside and embrace practical compromise. By Danielle Russo, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Grid Security. America has already begun to feel the impacts of landmark legislation like […]
The Hill: Report on forced labor, child labor raises tough questions in green energy transition
“Abigail Hunter, executive director of the Center for Critical Minerals Strategy at energy security think tank SAFE, said this means that even if the U.S. isn’t directly importing the minerals, it is still likely importing items that contain them. ‘That means we are importing embedded material—which is almost always going through China for further transformation—AND […]
Politico: Hickenlooper, Tillis to unveil bipartisan legislation to boost US action on minerals
“Abigail Hunter, executive director of the Center for Critical Minerals Strategy at the energy security think tank SAFE, said in a statement that U.S. efforts to secure critical minerals ‘are still falling short’ in large part because the government has ‘yet to connect the dots’ between its many initiatives. ‘Bridging these gaps through a National […]
Maeil Business Newspaper: SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond Speaks at World Knowledge Forum in South Korea
“Important minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earths, etc. are essential for the production of electric motors and batteries, which are considered important for national security and economic stability. The global supply chain of these minerals faces many challenges, including geopolitical tensions, environmental concerns, and market volatility. International cooperation is essential for stable supply […]
Op-Ed: Critical minerals, Western security and the case for US leadership
This op-ed originally appeared in Mining.com on September 3, 2024. Read the original. By Rt. Hon. Dominic Raab As the world awaits the US Presidential election debate on 10 September, the two candidates Donald Trump and Kamala Harris might reflect on the words of President Dwight Eisenhower, seventy years ago, when he quipped “I have […]
Politico: Biden administration weighs price support for US critical minerals amid Chinese pressure
“Still, some industry watchers remain skeptical about whether a government backstop is the right strategy to support the industry. Abigail Hunter, executive director of the Center for Critical Minerals Strategy at the think tank SAFE, said she has reservations about the government ‘getting their hands into commodity market pricing, which is very cyclical and complex.’ […]
WEBINAR: Yesterday’s Mines, Tomorrow’s Minerals
According to the International Energy Agency, global demand for critical minerals could more than double by 2030, and triple by 2050. The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that the U.S. is between 50% and 100% reliant on foreign sources, namely China and Chinese companies operating abroad, for these raw and processed critical minerals, creating major energy, […]
E&E News: China tightens grip on materials tied to renewables, batteries
“Zoe Oysul, a senior policy analyst with SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, said the Chinese Communist Party is continuing to ‘weaponize’ China’s monopolization of the critical minerals supply chain. Oysul said it’s important that affluent countries like the U.S., which generally has high environmental and labor standards, begin developing more projects within their own […]
STATEMENT: SAFE Responds to Beijing’s Escalatory Restrictions on Defense-Critical Metal Exports
Beijing’s announcement of new restrictions on antimony, essential to ammunition production and other vital industries, underscores the urgent need to diversify critical minerals and materials supply chains. Washington, D.C.—Beijing announced Thursday that it will require licenses for exports on antimony products, essential to ammunition production, starting Sept. 15. This is the latest restriction imposed by […]
Houston Chronicle: Inside the U.S.’s long, slow plan to undercut China on clean energy
“In the meantime, China’s state-backed companies are willing to producer minerals far beyond existing demand, driving down prices and making it harder for companies in the U.S. and allied countries to compete. That has national security analysts in Washington nervous, envisioning a future where renewable energy and electric vehicles become a much larger slice of the […]
STATEMENT: Uber-BYD Global EV Deal a “Wakeup Call” for American Industry and Policymakers
“Once we lose competitiveness and know-how in this industrial arena, it is impossible to regain.” Responding to news reports that Uber will deploy 100,000 BYD electric vehicles as part of its global ridesharing service, SAFE experts issued the following statements. Avery Ash, Executive Director of SAFE’s Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (ReMo), said: “This is yet […]
PRESS RELEASE: SAFE Urges Advancement of Permitting Reform Legislation in Letter to Senate Leadership
Without these permitting reforms we risk a future of energy scarcity as demand is surging from national priorities—including advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence—that are key to our security, prosperity, and competitiveness. Washington, D.C.—In advance of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee’s markup of the Energy Permitting Reform Act of 2024, SAFE has submitted a […]
STATEMENT: SAFE Applauds Introduction of Permitting Reform Package
Provisions on Interregional Planning and Accelerated Judicial Review are Key to Energy Leadership and National Security Washington, D.C.—The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee has unveiled a bipartisan permitting reform proposal led by Chairman Joe Manchin (I-W.Va.) and Ranking Member John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). In response, SAFE experts issued the following statements: Robbie Diamond, Founder and […]
STATEMENT: SAFE Applauds Introduction of “Global Strategy for Securing Critical Minerals Act of 2024”
SAFE Urges Continued Integration of Domestic and International Mineral Priorities and Codified Support of Mineral Security Partnership Washington, D.C.—In response to the introduction of the Global Strategy for Securing Critical Minerals Act of 2024, Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Mineral Strategy, released the following statement: “Mineral security is national security. We applaud […]
WEBINAR China / Competition / Power Episode Two: China’s Industrial Policy and Impact on Key Industries
REGISTER NOW Join us on Thursday July 18 from 1 p.m.-2 p.m. for: Episode Two: China’s Industrial Policy and Impact on Key Industries Featuring: Rick Switzer, Principal at ProjX and Former State Department Official Jonathan Ward, Author of The Decisive Decade & China’s Vision of Victory Chris Cloutier, Partner at Schagrin Associates, International Trade Lawyer Robert Atkinson, President of […]
SAFE’s Mineral Center Joins House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party Working Group on Critical Minerals and Rare Earth Supply Chains
In June, Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, testified as part of the inaugural closed-door meeting of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party’s Critical Minerals Policy Working Group, led by Representatives Rob Wittman (R-VA) and Kathy Castor (D-FL), both of whom spoke at SAFE Summit 2024. Hunter’s […]
WATCH China / Competition / Power Episode One: China’s Hybrid Economic System
In case you missed it, you can now watch the first in a series of webinars exploring how Beijing’s policies threaten markets, innovation, and a rules-based world order. In Episode One, our panelists discussed the history and consequences of Beijing’s “brute force economics,” a paradigm that puts geopolitical power ahead of profits, as well as what […]
SAFE Responds to House Committee Findings of Labor Abuses in Chinese Battery Supply Chains
Washington, DC—Responding to recent findings by House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party about potential slave labor practices in China’s battery supply chain, SAFE Founder, President, and CEO Robbie Diamond issued the following statement: “The recent findings from the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party expose broadly suspected abuses in an opaque and impenetrable mineral and […]
Opinion: A Need for A Clear-Eyed China Policy
This op-ed originally appeared in Handelsblatt on June 3, 2024. Read the original in German. By Amb. Joachim Bitterlich (ret.) and Peter C.W. Flory The partnership between Putin and Xi and China’s quest for technology dominance threaten the European Union and with it, German prosperity. But there are ways to defend our interests and values. China’s […]
WEBINAR CCP: China / Competition / Power
Join us for this webinar featuring insights from leading China watchers to serve as an informational primer for policymakers and other stakeholders. Episode One: China’s Hybrid Economic Mode Hosted by: Rick Switzer, Principal at ProjX and Former State Department Official Featuring: Adam Frost, Former EXIM Bank Senior Vice President of the China and Transformational Exports Program Liza Tobin, Senior […]
Opinion: New energy sources for AI, data centers are vital to U.S. national security
This article originally appeared in MarketWatch. Government must revamp energy policies to keep the nation’s power grid running By: General Duncan McNabb (Ret.) Seemingly overnight, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformational technology that will reshape our society and economy for the foreseeable future. We are only beginning to understand its implications, and the […]
S&P Global: Biden tariff hike on Chinese aluminum shows commitment to US industry
“Tariffs welcomed, but still fall short: SAFE While the tariffs were largely welcomed, some industry groups and observers reiterated that they still represented only one aspect of a necessary and multi-faceted approach to protect US industries against China’s manufacturing overcapacity. ‘The US needs a comprehensive and coordinated response, and tariffs are a powerful but blunt […]
E&E News: Biden ratchets up tariffs on Chinese EVs, solar, batteries
“Abigail Hunter, executive director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, said the administration’s approach makes sense. The delay on graphite tariffs, she said, gives domestic producers time to build capacity and is ‘a thoughtful timeline that syncs with other policies and long-term goals.’ ‘Trade policies for mineral supply chains are ideally measured, incremental and […]
Mining.Com: How the West wields laws to thwart critical mineral supply chain risks
“We need to prioritize high-standard projects to create a diverse and secure supply chain,” said Abigail Hunter … during an April 30 panel. “We must capture the real cost of extracting, mining, and processing these materials to establish a resilient system.” Watch the full panel: “Video: How the West wields laws to thwart critical mineral […]
SAFE Experts Comment on Section 301 Tariff Review
Responding to the Biden administration’s trade policy decisions impacting $18 billion worth of goods, conducted as part of the statutorily required 4-year review of Section 301 Tariffs, SAFE’s experts provided the following comments: Avery Ash, Executive Director of SAFE’s Coalition for Reimagined Mobility: “Connected, automated and electric technologies will define the next 100 years of success in the automotive sector. […]
SAFE Applauds Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s New Rule to Remove Barriers to Transmission Construction
In response to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) approval of a regional transmission planning and cost allocation rule, which will help improve and expand the grid’s transmission infrastructure, Thomas Coleman, Executive Director of SAFE’s Grid Security Project (GSP), released the following statement: “A reliable and secure power grid is the foundation of the American […]
S&P Global Commodity Insights: Biden tariff hike on Chinese aluminum shows commitment to US industry: Century Aluminum
While the tariffs were largely welcomed, some industry groups and observers reiterated that they still represented only one aspect of a necessary and multi-faceted approach to protect US industries against China’s manufacturing overcapacity. “The US needs a comprehensive and coordinated response, and tariffs are a powerful but blunt instrument in a complex situation,” Avery Ash, […]
SAFE: Exit Strategy Needed for Dependence on Chinese Graphite Supply
Washington, D.C.—In response to the U.S. Department of the Treasury releasing the final rule on FEOC provisions for the Section 30D clean vehicle tax credit, including a 2 year exemption for graphite, Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy issued the following statement: “The administration is trapped by time as it strives to […]
Washington Examiner: Treasury eases finalized electric vehicle tax credit to allow for Chinese graphite
“While recognizing the need for measures to expedite EV deployment, FEOC exemptions for any battery materials should be temporary: We need a clear exit strategy, lest we continue our dependencies on adversaries and further undermine the competitiveness of U.S. and allied critical minerals projects,” said Abigail Hunter, executive director of energy and defense nonprofit SAFE’s […]
SAFE’s Abigail Hunter Testifies on Comprehensive Trade Approach for Critical Mineral Supply Security
Washington, D.C.—Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Mineral Strategy (Minerals Center) testified today at the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) on policy mechanisms to support secure and reliable access to global critical mineral supplies. The United States faces a pressing challenge in securing reliable access to the critical minerals needed to power […]
SAFE strengthens critical minerals partnership, bringing leading natural resources investors to strategic dialogue
Highlights Sub-Committee on Opportunities and Risks in the critical mineral sector (“SCOR”) strengthened with critical minerals and energy transition investors, including Orion Resource Partners, EMR Capital, Engine No. 1, and other leading private equity funds New private sector participants will play an important role in the future success of the initiative to secure an independent […]
E&E News: Biden expected to ease EV tax credit restrictions for key Chinese mineral
Experts say the administration is in a tight spot, trying to accelerate EV adoption and meet deployment commitments under the IRA, while at the same time securing complex mineral supply chains needed for EV batteries. The Biden administration is standing up mineral supply chains in the U.S and with trading partners through incentives, grants and […]
SAFE: LPO Funding for Upstream Critical Mineral Development Addresses Important Financing Gap
Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s announcement that the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Loan Programs Office funding under Title 17 can be applied to upstream mineral development projects, Abigail Hunter, Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Mineral Strategy issued the following statement: “Companies in the U.S. are exploring cutting-edge extraction methods and innovative mining approaches that ensure upstream […]
Fox Business: Industry group warns of Chinese connected vehicles
Now, a leading industry group, named Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE), has made public their comments that the Commerce Department sought on the issue, describing the litany of risks to U.S. national security that the technology poses. “Foreign adversaries are cornering and leveraging key supply chains to geopolitical and economic ends — with outcomes that […]
SAFE’s ReMo Comments on National Security Impacts of Connected Vehicles to Commerce Department
Today, SAFE’s Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (ReMo) submitted a detailed comment letter per the Commerce Department’s request for comment on the national security implications of connected vehicles with foreign components. While SAFE and ReMo anticipate that this investigation will uncover significant risks, it is imperative that strategic decoupling from foreign adversaries for vehicle components and […]
Politico: China’s lock on batteries bedevils Biden’s electric vehicle push
“But the U.S. battery firms say the proposal left loopholes for automakers to keep relying on Chinese products — something that could be a death knell for their projects, as signing offtake agreements with buyers is often a condition for their financing. “The issue could even imperil the financing of projects that have reaped some […]
WEBINAR: How DOE’s Loan Programs Office is Driving American Competitiveness
Executive Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy Abigail Hunter moderated a webinar panel Tuesday between Director of the Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office (LPO) Jigar Shah, President and CEO of Lithium America Jonathan Evans, and Vice President of Operations for Ultium Cells Thomas Gallagher about the critical role LPO plays in driving […]
Washington’s Strategy on Chinese EVs Must Include Offensive and Defensive Tactics
SAFE’s ReMo comments on calls for import restrictions on Chinese EVs April 12, 2024 | Washington, DC In response to Senator Sherrod Brown’s letter to President Biden calling for a ban on Chinese vehicles, Avery Ash, Executive Director of the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (a project of SAFE), issued the following statement: “Connected, automated and electric […]
SAFE Speaks at National Press Club on the National Security Impact of U.S.-Nippon Steel Merger
Washington, D.C.—Vice President of SAFE’s Center for Strategic Industrial Materials (C-SIM) Joe Quinn spoke at the National Press Club on the effects of the possible merger between U.S. Steel and Nippon Steel today. The conversation timely coincided with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida’s April 10 state visit to the White House. Quinn’s remarks focused on the […]
SAFE Applauds New Emissions Rules for Heavy-Duty Vehicles
Washington, D.C.—In response to the finalized phase three heavy-duty vehicle emissions rule released today by the EPA, General Charles F. Wald, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), member of SAFE’s Energy Security Leadership Council and Former Deputy Commander of U.S. European Command, issued the following statement: “Today’s new emissions rule for heavy-duty vehicles, combined with last week’s […]
Reuters: US awards record $6 billion to back industrial emissions reduction projects
The United States was the leading primary aluminum producer in the world in 2000 but is now ninth with four U.S. smelters in operation, down from 23 in 1993, said energy group SAFE. “A new domestic smelter puts the U.S. back in the game and reverses our dangerous, decades-long decline in primary aluminum production,” said […]
SAFE Applauds Department of Energy’s Historic Investment in Advanced Industrial Projects
DOE grant will spur first U.S. primary aluminum smelter in decades, potentially doubling U.S. capacity Washington, D.C.–SAFE applauds the Department of Energy Office of Clean Energy Demonstration Project’s (OCED) announcement of finalists for the $6 billion Industrial Demonstrations Program allocated through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. OCED’s grants are accompanied by $14 […]
SAFE Welcomes Final Vehicle Emissions Rule Balancing Stringency and Flexibility in Reducing Oil Dependence
Washington, D.C.—In response to the finalized light and medium duty vehicle emissions rule released today by the EPA, Robbie Diamond, Founder, President, and CEO of SAFE issued the following statement: “This rule is the federal government’s largest program for reducing our oil dependence—and its importance to our long-term economic and national security cannot be overstated. Since […]
SAFE and ReMo Remember Dr. Jerry Cohon, President Emeritus of Carnegie Mellon University and Founding Co-Chair of the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility
Washington D.C.—In response to news of the passing of Dr. Jerry Cohon, SAFE’s Founder, President, and CEO Robbie Diamond issued the following statement: “It is with deep sorrow this morning that I received the news of Dr. Jerry Cohon passing. In addition to his leadership as the president emeritus of Carnegie Mellon University, Dr. Cohon provided SAFE […]
Bloomberg: California’s Long-Time Clean Air Cop Talks Trump, China and EVs
Bloomberg interviews the co-chair of SAFE’s Coalition for Reimagined Mobility Mary Nichols, at SAFE Summit 2024: “We spoke [with Nichols] on the sidelines of SAFE Summit, a conference that’s drawn investors, policymakers and executives from the auto, battery and mining industries to Washington this week to opine on electrification and the west’s economic competition with […]
Washington Examiner: Hochstein talks China and IRA, US extends oil production lead, and Shell shifts on climate plans
White House envoy Amos Hochstein kicked off a two-day energy summit [SAFE Summit 2024] in D.C. this morning with a candid recounting of some of the Biden administration’s biggest victories and challenges, including competing with China on clean energy manufacturing and battery production and creating tensions with allies with the Inflation Reduction Act – privileged […]
Biden Administration’s Investigation into Chinese Connected Vehicles Likely to Find Extensive Risks
SAFE and ReMo Applaud Commerce Department Action Washington, D.C.—In response to the Commerce Department’s announcement of an investigation into Chinese vehicles, components, and software, Avery Ash, Executive Director of the Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (a project of SAFE), issued the following statement: “It’s welcome news to see the Biden Administration taking concrete action today to understand and […]
SAFE’s Joe Quinn Testifies Before the U.S. Department of Treasury on the 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit
Washington, D.C.—On February 22, SAFE Vice President of Strategic Industrial Materials Joe Quinn testified at the U.S. Department of Treasury’s public hearing on the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) 45X Advanced Manufacturing Production Credit. The hearing followed the conclusion of a six-week comment period on the proposed rule. In his testimony, Quinn commended Treasury’s amended aluminum […]
Mining.com: Appian appoints strategic advisor on global affairs; partners with SAFE
Appian has also formed a partnership with SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, an organization of military and business leaders focused on the intersection of energy policy and national security. The partnership takes the form of a SAFE-Appian sub-committee on opportunities and risks in the critical mineral sector (SCOR), chaired by [the Rt. Hon. Dominic] […]
Appian Capital and SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy Launch Strategic Partnership
SAFE-Appian partnership to inform governments on how the private sector weighs critical minerals investment and development, leveraging Appian’s leading global expertise while inviting other industry leaders to the table Appian has appointed former UK Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab as its Senior Strategic Advisor on Global Affairs Raab to chair new Appian […]
SAFE, U.S. State Department Convene Minerals, Energy, and Defense Leaders at Munich Security Conference
The discussion focused on actionable strategies that would diversify access to critical minerals, as part of SAFE’s Mineral Investment Network for Vital Energy Security and Transition (MINVEST) partnership with the U.S. Department of State. MUNICH, GERMANY—SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy (Minerals Center) the European Initiative for Energy Security (EIES), and the U.S. State Department […]
SAFE Releases Recommendations on Developing EV Battery Supply Chains for Inclusive and Sustainable Growth
Report outlines findings from industry-government workshops hosted with the U.S. Department of State in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia Washington, D.C. and Cape Town, South Africa—SAFE, through its Ambassador Alfred Hoffman Jr. Center for Critical Minerals Strategy (Minerals Center), is publishing recommendations previously shared with the U.S. government to improve standards, security, […]
OP-ED: America’s Aging Grid Threatens National Security; Here Are Some Steps to Fix It
The following op-ed originally appeared on Utility Dive. By Admiral Michelle J. Howard (ret.), member of SAFE’s Energy Security Leadership Council. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission should finalize a strong regional transmission planning and cost allocation rule, which has been under consideration since 2021. Two winters ago, a deadly storm crippled Texas. The ice storm […]
SAFE’s Book Talk Series Returns with Ernest Scheyder
SAFE’s Book Talk Series returns with author Ernest Scheyder joining Abigail Hunter, director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy to discuss his new book, “The War Below: Lithium, Copper, and The Global Battle to Power Our Lives.” Scheyder’s book explores where, how, and why our world procures critical minerals, the building blocks of the energy […]
SAFE Speaks on Capitol Hill on the Importance of Increasing Domestic Heavy Manufacturing
On Wednesday afternoon, Joe Quinn, Vice President of SAFE’s Center for Strategic Industrial Materials spoke on Capitol Hill at a panel hosted by the Sierra Club. The conversation focused on the importance of increasing domestic heavy manufacturing pursuant to the United States’ national security goals. Other expert panelists included Dr. Abigail Regitsky, Senior Manager of […]
New Report Identifies the Opportunities and Barriers to Unlocking the Potential of a 21st Century Mobility System
Bold action and coordinated commitment key to address global transportation challenges and improve how people and goods move Washington D.C., January 8, 2023—The Coalition for Reimagined Mobility (ReMo), a global initiative of the nonprofit SAFE, committed to advancing solutions to shape transportation systems that are better for people and planet, released a new report today […]
Grid in Peril: The Transmission Crisis and its Effects on National Security
Register now for the second webinar in the Grid in Peril webinar series by SAFE’s Grid Security Project. This series looks at the challenges facing the United States’ power grid as the country reindustrializes and electrifies its transportation system. Panel Discussion: • Representative Paul Tonko, (D-NY20) • Christina Hayes, Executive Director, Americans for a Clean […]
SAFE Weighs How to Effectively Incorporate Materials Costs in 45X
Production cost exclusion for raw materials may undermine domestic investments Washington, D.C. (December 15, 2023)—In further response to the U.S. Treasury Department’s announcement yesterday on the proposed guidance regarding the Inflation Reduction Act Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit 45X, SAFE Acting Director of the Center for Critical Minerals Strategy Abigail Hunter issued the following statement: “Processing […]
SAFE Applauds Treasury Department’s Proposed Guidance on 45X Aluminum Provision
Decision provides crucial financial support for domestic primary aluminum production Washington, D.C. (December 14, 2023) — In response to the U.S. Treasury Department’s announcement earlier today on the proposed guidance regarding the Inflation Reduction Act Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit 45X, SAFE Vice President and Director of the Center for Strategic Industrial Materials Joe Quinn issued […]
SAFE Testifies Before the U.S. International Trade Commission on Clean Domestic Aluminum Supply Chains
Washington, D.C.–Today, Joe Quinn, Vice President and Director of SAFE’s Center for Strategic Industrial Materials, testified before the U.S. International Trade Commission on the importance of ensuring the vitality of domestic primary aluminum production. During his opening statement, Quinn noted the importance of aluminum as we transition to an electric world. “We believe the world […]
SAFE Responds to U.S. Treasury Guidance on Foreign Entity of Concern Provision in IRA’s 30D Tax Credit
Washington, DC—In response to the U.S. Treasury Department’s announcement this morning of the guidance regarding the Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) provision in the Inflation Reduction Act’s (IRA) 30D tax credit, SAFE Founder, President, and CEO Robbie Diamond issued the following statement: “The U.S. Treasury Department’s guidance regarding Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) highlights the challenge […]
WEBINAR: Clear Skies, Quiet Nights: How Autonomous Vehicle Technology Can Reduce Urban Air and Noise Pollution
SAFE’s Center for Automated Transportation Technology held a thought-provoking webinar for the release of new research on the intersection of transportation technology, urban pollution, and quality of life in disadvantaged communities. “Clear Skies, Quiet Nights: How Autonomous Vehicle Technology Can Reduce Urban Air and Noise Pollution” explores the profound impact of air and noise pollution […]
SAFE Case Study: Electric Shared Autonomous Vehicles Could Significantly Reduce Noise, Air Pollution
Washington, D.C. (November 2, 2023)—A new case study out of SAFE’s Center for Automated Transportation Technology (CATT) shows that modest deployment of electric, shared autonomous vehicles (SAVs) would result in tremendous noise and air pollution reductions, especially in disadvantaged communities, where these impacts are often disproportionately concentrated. CATT Director Dr. Allante Whitmore’s new case study, […]
The Hill: Biden admin partners with nonprofit on critical mineral supply chains
The State Department on Wednesday announced a partnership with the nonprofit SAFE on the development of critical mineral supply chains, part of broader Biden administration efforts to reduce foreign dependence on such resources. The partnership, the Minerals Investment Network for Vital Energy Security and Transition (MINVEST), will aim to marshal private sector support for U.S. mineral-security goals, […]
SAFE, State Department Announce Partnership To Promote Investment In Critical Minerals Supply Chains
Washington, D.C. (November 1, 2023)—The U.S. Department of State and SAFE signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) Wednesday formalizing the nonprofit as the Department’s sole NGO partner in a new initiative to spur investment in critical minerals supply chains. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment Jose W. Fernandez, Assistant Secretary Geoffrey […]
SAFE-U.S. State Department Workshops Propose Greater Investment, Capacity-Building In Critical Mineral Supply Chains In Zambia And The DRC
Washington, D.C.— SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy partnered with the U.S. Department of State to host two workshops with the respective Battery Councils of Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on ways to spur private sector investment and build regional capacity for strategic mining, processing, recycling, and battery production. The workshops—held last […]
Bloomberg: Aging US Electric Grid’s Significant Risks Undercut Reliability, SAFE Says
The US is ill-prepared to tackle the myriad of risks that threaten to undermine reliability of the nation’s electric grids, says a group focused on energy security. “Extreme weather events, cyber espionage and domestic terror attacks, combined with increasing demand on aging infrastructure have turned the occasional power failure into alarmingly common events in cities […]
WEBINAR: Grid in Peril: Challenges and Opportunities Facing the Nation’s Power Grid
The United States’ electric power grid continues to experience significant risks that threaten its ability to provide reliable and resilient electric power. This essential infrastructure faces a confluence of current and emerging challenges: Demand is increasing as the United States grows and reindustrializes its economy while rapidly electrifying the vehicle fleet. Incremental transmission capacity is […]
SAFE Report: U.S. Must Address Power Grid Vulnerability, Transmission Infrastructure To Ensure Secure Energy Transition
Washington, D.C. (September 26, 2023)—Today, SAFE’s Grid Security Project (GSP) released a report, Grid in Peril: The Problem Statement, detailing the significant risks that threaten the U.S. electrical power grid’s ability to provide reliable and resilient electric power. This report outlines the confluence of current and emerging challenges facing this essential infrastructure as the U.S. […]
Opinion: Newsom Should Veto AB 316 for California to Remain A Leader in Development of Autonomous Trucks
This op-ed originally appeared in the Sacramento Business Journal on September 22, 2023. By Dr. Allanté Whitmore, Director of the Autonomous Vehicles Initiative at SAFE A bill that threatens to dramatically slow—and potentially halt—nearly a decade of innovation in autonomous trucking is near passage in the California Senate. Its ramifications extend far beyond California and […]
SAFE Welcomes the Department of the Interior Interagency Working Group’s Recommendations on Mining Reform
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the US Department of the Interior (DOI) released the results of the Interagency Working Group’s (IWG) Recommendations on Mining Reform. Abigail Wulf, Vice President and Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, issued the following statement: “The global economy, the energy transition, and our economic and national security all depend on access […]
WEBINAR: Minerals and Materials List-O-Mania
Minerals and materials are essential to many of society’s most important technological innovations: From semiconductors to solar panels and from smart phones to smart bombs. As the world becomes increasingly digital, connected, and electric, it will need additional supplies of these critical commodities to meet rising demand and to support countries’ economic competitiveness and national […]
SAFE REPORT: Global Policy Insights For Restoring America’s Aluminum Industry
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Washington, D.C. (August 15, 2023)—Aluminum is essential to the energy transition, our modern economy, and national defense, but the U.S. and allies are rapidly losing the capacity to produce it while China corners the market. A new report from SAFE’s Center for Strategic Industrial Materials (C-SIM), “Global Insights: Energy and Environmental Aluminum […]
SAFE REPORT: HIGH ENERGY COSTS UNDERMINE THE U.S. ALUMINUM INDUSTRY; TRADE POLICY MUST ACCOUNT FOR THIS IMBALANCE
Washington, D.C. (June 28, 2023)— Today, the SAFE Center for Strategic Industrial Materials (C-SIM) released a report outlining the impact high energy costs have on preventing the U.S. from developing a robust domestic primary aluminum industry and how to create a more effective trade policy framework. The new report, “Political Tailwinds: Examining Trade Policy for […]
WEBINAR: A Discussion with David H. McCormick, Author of Superpower In Peril
The global race for talent, technology, and data has never been more evident – and America is falling behind. A new vision is needed for American renewal to reverse the decline, educate our people, confront China’s efforts to subvert America’s role as a superpower and secure our country and the battle plan to put America […]
SAFE CEO: Bold Action Needed to Break America’s Reliance on Manipulated Oil Markets
Washington, D.C. (June 5, 2023) – The following statement can be attributed to SAFE Founder and CEO, Robbie Diamond in response to reports of Saudi Arabia cutting its oil supply to the global economy by 1 million barrels per day: “Saudi Arabia’s decision to cut production by one million barrels of oil per day is […]
SAFE: Debt Ceiling Agreement Permitting Reforms a Good Start but More Work To Do
After analyzing the debt ceiling agreement reached between President Biden and Speaker McCarthy, SAFE issued the following statement from Founder and CEO Robbie Diamond: “SAFE is pleased by the inclusion of key permitting reform provisions in the agreement to address the debt ceiling. This is a good first step and we hope it sets the […]
SAFE Report: Electricity Shortfalls Impede IRA’s Materials Production Goals
(May 10, 2023) – Today, the SAFE Center for Strategic Industrial Materials (C-SIM) released a report examining how recent domestic policies designed to promote the energy transition and reduce carbon emissions are increasing demand for aluminum used in many of the needed technologies but without addressing supply-side challenges, specifically the affordable electricity generation and distribution […]
Report: A Global Race to the Top for Critical Minerals
The SAFE Center for Critical Minerals Strategy has released its inaugural report “A Global Race to the Top: Using Transparency to Secure Critical Mineral Supply Chains.” The report examines the extent to which the United States can work with major allies and, per Inflation Reduction Act requirements, countries with which it shares a free […]
OpEd: The US Aluminum Production Challenge and How to Fix It
The US Aluminum Production Challenge and How to Fix It By Joe Quinn, Vice President and Director of the SAFE Center for Strategic Industrial Materials A necessary input into everything from passenger airplanes to kitchen appliances, aluminum is one of the foundational industrial materials of modern society. And, as with so many other important products and materials, […]
SAFE Responds to EPA Fuel Emissions Announcement
Today, the EPA announced proposed regulations for more stringent emissions standards for automobiles. In response, SAFE CEO and Founder Robbie Diamond said: “These changes would support the overall strategic goal of transitioning away from overreliance on oil for automobile transportation, a dependency that leaves America vulnerable to global price and supply volatility and the whims […]
Thomas Coleman to Lead SAFE’s Grid Security Project
Thomas Coleman to Lead SAFE’s Grid Security Project April 10, 2023 – SAFE today announced the addition of Thomas Coleman, an experienced leader and policy expert in the energy industry and power transmission grid, as Executive Director of its Grid Security Project. Coleman comes to SAFE from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) where, […]
SAFE Responds to IRS 30D Guidance
The following statement can be attributed to Robbie Diamond, Founder and CEO of SAFE: “Today’s announcement marks a crucial step toward delivering on the Inflation Reduction Act’s goals. While the United States is serious about electrification it can’t be at the expense of national security and jobs. The guidance provides the clarity industry needs to […]
SAFE Responds to DOI Announcement
In anticipation of the today’s approval of the Willow Project, the Interior Department announced on Sunday that it would expand existing bans on new oil and gas leasing in Arctic waters and prevent new drilling across much of the National Petroleum Reserve-Alaska. Admiral Dennis Blair, Chairman of SAFE and member of the SAFE Energy Security Leadership […]
Avery Ash to Lead SAFE’s Government Affairs
Avery Ash to Lead SAFE’s Government Affairs Operation March 7, 2023 – SAFE today announced the addition of Avery Ash, a leading transportation policy expert and advocate, as Senior Vice President for Government Relations and Special Initiatives. In this role Ash will develop and lead SAFE’s engagement with policymakers and regulators to advance transportation and […]
SAFE Responds to Russian Aluminum Tariff
Washington, D.C. – The U.S. government recently announced a 200% tariff on Russian aluminum. Joe Quinn, Vice President and Director of the SAFE Center for Strategic Industrial Materials, said: “The administration’s new tariff on Russian aluminum demonstrates that we are willing to confront supplier nations that do not share America’s interests or values. The tariff complements […]
SAFE Report Addresses U.S. Aluminum Sector’s Energy Challenges
Lowering and stabilizing energy costs will bolster domestic industry. The U.S. is at risk of greater reliance on adversarial countries for critical materials. Washington, D.C. – Today, The SAFE Center for Strategic Industrial Materials (C-SIM) released The U.S. Aluminum Industry’s Energy Problem and Energy Solution, the first report in a series of policy papers regarding […]
WEBINAR: Leading the Charge: What Innovation and the IRA Could Mean for Leadership in Advanced Battery Tech
The United States is in a competition for the ownership of advanced energy technologies that will fuel the future—and batteries are central to its efforts. The hundreds of billions of dollars spent and pledged by governments and automakers on non-petroleum fuels have made a transition to electric vehicles and renewable sources of energy a certainty. […]
Removing Regulatory Obstacles to AV Adoption Would Result in Major Fuel, Traffic Savings
Nearly 7 billion hours are lost in traffic and more than 3 billion gallons of fuel wasted annually in the U.S. Shared, electric AVs could result in a 50% reduction in fuel consumption, 75% reduction in CO2 emissions, and 6% reduction in congestion. Current U.S. regulations make AV deployment at scale impossible and limit innovative […]
SAFE Responds to State of the Union
Washington, DC – SAFE Founder and CEO Robbie Diamond released the following statement following President Biden’s State of the Union address: “As alluded to in the President’s speech, the Inflation Reduction Act’s energy investments and electric vehicle provisions represent a historic step forward to reduce America’s overdependence on oil for automobile transportation now and to […]
SAFE Announces 2022-2023 Class Of Energy Security Fellows
Washington, D.C.— Today, SAFE announced 25 Fellows will join its 2023 Energy Security Fellows Program. The program, now running in its eighth consecutive year, provides the next generation of energy and national security professionals with access to high-level programming and networking opportunities. Through a series of monthly conversations with subject-matter experts, the program aims to connect professionals […]
WEBINAR: From Tails to Tech: Can Abandoned Mines be a Win-Win for Energy Security and the Environment?
In the coming decades, demand for critical minerals needed for advanced technologies like solar panels, electric vehicles (EVs), and defense applications is expected to drastically rise, potentially requiring the opening of hundreds of new mines and increasing the United States’ reliance on China. While the United States produces small quantities of some critical minerals, new […]
SAFE Summit to Address EV Supply Chains and Infrastructure
Washington, DC – Senior business leaders from the world’s leading automobile, mining, and transportation corporations as well as White House and senior government officials are scheduled to headline the SAFE Summit: A Pathway to Electrification from Minerals to Market, on March 28-29, 2023, in Washington, D.C. The summit aims to seize the historical moment provided […]
Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo
Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo Conference: May 1-4, 2023 | Expo: May 2-4, 2023 Anaheim Convention Center | Anaheim, CA Join us May 1-4, 2023, at the Anaheim Convention Center in Southern California for the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo. ACT Expo is the largest conference and trade show highlighting the most advanced transportation technologies […]
SAFE Responds to Treasury Release of IRA Implementation Information
Washington, DC (December 29, 2022) Today, the U.S. Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released documents with additional clarification relating to the electric vehicle (RV) tax credit provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). The following statement can be attributed to SAFE Founder and CEO Robbie Diamond: “It is encouraging to see the […]
SAFE: Missed Chance on Permitting Reform
Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, it was reported that permitting reform legislation that would accelerate the deployment of clean energy and critical minerals projects would not be included in the FY 23 National Defense Authorization Act. This omission effectively postpones the possibility for action on permitting reform into the next Congress and solidifies the lengthiness of permitting and […]
The Raw Truth of Europe’s Raw Materials
As the world’s eyes were fixed on United Nations Climate Change Conference COP27 in Egypt, a more low-key bureaucratic gathering was taking place in Brussels, working on growing the industrial supply chains needed to wean the Continent off the most carbon-intensive fuels for both environmental and national security reasons. Indeed, European Raw Materials Week has now […]
Can Biden’s Green-Energy Czar Succeed?
The energy transition will succeed or fail based on its capacity to power future economic growth and improve the living standards of all Americans. Doing so requires an “energy czar” willing to work both sides of the congressional aisle, gain the trust of responsible members of the business community, and sustain support among fair-minded environmentalist […]
WEBINAR: A Discussion with Dr. Chris Miller, Author of Chip War
Semiconductors helped win the Cold War, but in recent years strategists, engineers, and lawmakers alike have become deeply concerned about the erosion of America’s technological leadership in an industry Silicon Valley invented. The U.S. dominates chip software and design, but no longer manufactures the leading-edge chips that drive the technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing […]
WEBINAR: Raw Materials for the Green Economy: How the EU and US Can Work Together
The world is transitioning from an economy fueled by oil to an economy fueled by raw materials. This poses the twin challenge of the global need to re-industrialize and the need for the transition to be sustainable with high environmental standards and transparency. On November 11th, SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy and Transport & Environment […]
Apply now for the 2022-23 SAFE Energy Security Fellows Program
SAFE is now accepting applications for the 2022-2023 Energy Security Fellows Program. We encourage you to apply and share with qualified candidates. The SAFE Fellows Program provides the next generation of energy and national security professionals with access to high-level programming and networking opportunities designed to connect individuals who are passionate about advancing a national […]
SAFE Applauds DOE Battery Grants to Fuel Domestic EV Supply Chain
Washington, D.C. – Today, the Department of Energy awarded $2.8 billion in funding from the 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to 21 industry-led projects to boost domestic battery manufacturing, processing, and recycling. “These projects demonstrate the Administration’s commitment to securing the entire critical mineral and battery value chain,” noted Abigail Wulf, Vice President of SAFE’s Center […]
SAFE Responds to Potential Russian Aluminum Ban
Image: Pavel Losevsky Washington, D.C. – The U.S. government is considering barring all imports of Russian aluminum into the United States due to the recent escalation of attacks on civilians in Ukraine. “The prospect of removing Russian aluminum from the U.S. market reinforces the importance of sustaining, modernizing, and expanding domestic primary aluminum smelters in […]
Retired Military Leaders Urge White House to Support NOPEC
Washington, D.C. – This week, 12 military members of SAFE’s Energy Security Leadership Council (ESLC) – 11 retired four-star officers plus a former service secretary – submitted a letter addressed to President Biden urging the passage of the No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act (NOPEC) legislation awaiting a floor vote in the U.S. House […]
SAFE, National Security Experts, Commend Leader Schumer and Senator Grassley Call for Passing NOPEC in Response to OPEC Production Cuts
Washington, D.C. – On October 5th, OPEC+ announced a production cut of 2 million barrels of oil per day, which is expected to worsen the high inflation harming U.S. consumers and businesses. In response, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) stated, “What Saudi Arabia did to help Putin continue to wage his despicable, vicious war […]
Energy Security Advocates Assail Oil Production Cuts and Call for NOPEC Vote
Washington, D.C. – Today OPEC+ announced a production cut of 2 million barrels of oil per day, which is expected to worsen the high inflation harming U.S. consumers and businesses. The continued malign role of the Saudi-led cartel group, which includes Russia, underscores the urgent need to pass the No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels […]
A Chance to Revive and Decarbonize American Manufacturing
(Image: Business Wire) After decades of complacency, America’s leaders now recognize the importance of securing domestic supply chains for our nation’s crucial energy and transportation needs. The recently signed Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) included aggressive sourcing requirements to accelerate domestic production of critical minerals and other electrical vehicle battery components. Less heralded, the bill also […]
SAFE Commends Goals of Permitting and Siting Reform Legislation
Washington, D.C. – Today, Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) released the text of a legislative agreement with Senate Democratic leaders that would revise the Federal permitting and siting process to support the transition towards an electrified future. SAFE has consistently advocated for responsible reforms to accelerate construction of new infrastructure and production of materials to end […]
Meeting the Moment, Seizing the Initiative
On September 13th, SAFE and EC Founder and CEO Robbie Diamond and EC Executive Director Ben Prochazka joined a gathering at the White House invited by President Biden to celebrate the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). This event punctuated a series of SAFE/EC achievements for this congressional session. The IRA, the Infrastructure Investment […]
SAFE Urges NHSTA to Approve GM Cruise Petition for Purpose Built Vehicle, Origin
SAFE has urged the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to grant the petition for exemption submitted by GM Cruise for their purpose-built vehicle the Origin. If granted, the exemption would allow flexibility in the design of autonomous vehicles (AVs) which exclude conventional features such as a steering wheel. Deploying purpose-built AVs for passenger travel […]
Event: Meeting The Moment: Understanding America’s Energy and Transportation Transition
This congressional session has produced landmark legislation – the Inflation Reduction Act(IRA), the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), and the CHIPS Act – covering broad array of transportation, infrastructure, supply chain challenges. Many of these bills’ provisions reflect long-standing SAFE and EC proposals. Collectively they help move America closer to achieving our core mission […]
A Ramp, Not a Cliff, Needed to Build EV Battery Supply Chains
The Electric Vehicle (EV) provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act provide a significant accelerant to America’s ongoing transition away from oil as the dominant fuel for transportation – a shift vital to our nation’s economic and national security. It is the first time America is seriously pursuing a comprehensive approach to lead the global energy transition […]
Carrots and Sticks Needed to End Oil Dependence
(Photo: Business Wire) Not so long ago it seemed the days of placating foreign despots for energy reasons was largely over. Big increases in domestic output made the U.S. the world’s largest petroleum producer and a net oil exporter. There was even talk of energy independence. But tens of millions of Americans have learned the […]
SAFE Commends Congressional Passage of CHIPS and Science Funding
Washington, D.C. – After the House passed the CHIPS and Science Act, sending it to President Biden’s desk for signature, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “Passage of this landmark legislation will help ensure America’s continued global leadership in semiconductor technology, spur domestic chip production, and reduce our dependence on vulnerable overseas […]
SAFE Applauds Landmark Energy Diversification and Security Bill
Washington, D.C. – In response to the legislative agreement forged between Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Joe Manchin (D-WV), SAFE Founder and CEO Robbie Diamond issued the following statement: “The comprehensive minerals to markets approach for EVs taken in the Schumer-Manchin bill answer the American peoples’ calling for a solution that will end oil dependence […]
SAFE ESLC Leaders Call on Congress to Push CHIPS Funding Over Finish Line
Washington, D.C. – As Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) seeks to move legislation to fund long-delayed semiconductor manufacturing incentives, leaders from SAFE’s Energy Security Leadership Council and American Semiconductor Center urged other Congressional leaders to join in passing the funding bill and sending it to President Biden’s desk for signature. “America created the semiconductor […]
Congress Should Immediately Pass NOPEC in Response to OPEC’s Refusal to Increase Oil Production
Washington, D.C. – After reports that Saudi Arabia will not imminently boost oil production on the heels of President Biden’s visit, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “It’s no surprise the Saudi-led OPEC cartel is once again playing dirty. With exorbitant gas prices here at home it’s time for the U.S. […]
Don’t Let The CHIPS Fall
One of the biggest supply-chain challenges we face today is getting more semiconductors, which are essential to products like automobiles, computers, solar panels and weapons systems. Despite this challenge, it has been almost two years since Congress first passed the CHIPS Act—by wide bipartisan margins. Now, it is time to get this essential legislation over […]
Highlights of Press Call on U.S.-Saudi Relations & NOPEC
Visit SAFE’s NOPEC page HERE. In advance of President Biden’s scheduled trip to the Middle East, SAFE hosted a press call with Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Congressmen David Cicilline (D-RI) and Steve Chabot (R-OH), SAFE Chairman Admiral (ret.) Dennis Blair, and SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond to discuss measures to stabilize global petroleum markets and lower gas […]
Advancing Vehicle to Grid Technology Adoption
On June 15th, SAFE and the Electrification Coalition hosted a webinar on the benefits of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology and related policy recommendations to accelerate adoption. The event coincided with the launch of a new report that details the policies needed to advance V2G technology at the federal, state, and regional levels to enhance energy security […]
SAFE & EC Release Report Containing Policy Recommendations to Advance Adoption of V2G Technology
WASHINGTON, D.C. – SAFE and the Electrification Coalition released a report on Wednesday that highlights policy opportunities to accelerate the adoption of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. As electric vehicle (EV) adoption accelerates across all vehicle classes, V2G capability can help manage system load and provide power back to the grid during times of need, thereby strengthening the […]
The Undersea Trove for Electric Vehicles
Photo: Anthony Souffle/AP President Biden recently invoked the Defense Production Act to boost supplies of the minerals needed to power electric vehicles and reduce America’s oil dependency. Yet, even with this welcome executive action, the U.S. can’t produce enough of some minerals, such as nickel. America must rely on undependable, often hostile foreign-controlled sources for these key materials. There […]
SAFE Commanding Heights Announces New Focus on Strategic Industrial Materials
Washington, D.C. – SAFE Commanding Heights today announced the addition of Joe Quinn as Vice President for Strategic Industrial Materials, who will head up a new policy initiative dedicated to advancing more secure, reliable, and sustainable supply chains for aluminum and other industrial materials critical to America’s national and economic security. Prior to joining SAFE, […]
Saying No to the Oil Cartel
Spiking gas prices have exposed, once again, the risk posed by America’s continued overdependence on oil for automobile transportation. The current crisis is a reminder that, irrespective of domestic production levels, oil prices are set in a global market – a market vulnerable to geo-political shocks and, in particular, manipulation by the Organization of Petroleum […]
SAFE Commends Advance of NOPEC Legislation
Washington, D.C. – After the Senate Judiciary Committee marked up the No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act (NOPEC), SAFE Chairman Admiral Dennis Blair, former Director of National Intelligence, made the following statement: “It is encouraging to see strong bipartisan support for ending OPEC’s long-standing and harmful influence over global oil markets and resulting gas […]
Commanding Heights Participates in Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi
On April 25th, Commanding Heights Executive Director Dr. Jeb Nadaner participated in a panel discussion titled, “The Broken Chain: Building Robust, Resilient & Reliable Supply Lines,” conducted at the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) Raisina Dialogue, the premier multilateral economic and security conference in South Asia. The SAFE Commanding Heights paper, “Building China Resistant Supply Compacts,” […]
Addressing Critical Mineral Supply Chain Vulnerability: A Transatlantic Conversation
The crisis in Ukraine underscores the inextricable link between national security, economic security, and energy security. Today, Russia is flexing its energy dominance over a dependent Europe. But tomorrow, the danger may come from other countries with control over the raw materials that are key to a clean energy future. As two of the largest […]
The US Has an Opportunity to Lead on Aluminum
The ongoing crisis in Ukraine presents another reminder of America’s reliance on problematic sources for essential products and materials. We already are experiencing price hikes stemming from sanctions on many Russian companies and commodities. From passenger airplanes to kitchen appliances, aluminum is one of those foundational industrial materials that a modern society needs to function—in addition […]
SAFE’s Abigail Wulf Testifies Before Senate On Domestic Critical Mineral Supply Chains
Today, Abigail Wulf, Vice President and Director of SAFE’s Center for Critical Minerals Strategy, testified before the Senate Energy and National Resources Committee on domestic critical mineral supply chains. During her opening statement, Wulf noted the importance of critical minerals as we transition to an electric world. “Make no mistake: the future is electric. Not […]
SAFE CEO Comments on Oil Reserve Release
Washington, D.C – Yesterday, it was reported that the Biden Administration plans to release approximately 1 million barrels per day from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). Earlier on Wednesday, an op-ed was published by SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond and former Sierra Club head Carl Pope calling on the White House to take this action. But […]
Energy: No Time for Half Measures
Yesterday’s see-no-evil, hear-no-evil strategy of using energy resources from countries with poor environmental standards, weak regulatory oversight and divergent interests and values is hypocritical. Doing so while refusing to optimize our own domestic energy resources during the energy transition is self-defeating; so is refusing to embrace the coming shift away from fossil fuels as our […]
America’s Energy Challenge: From Crisis to Opportunity
Many Americans believed that our country had achieved a degree of energy independence, if not dominance, based on increasing domestic oil production. We became complacent about the fundamental energy security challenges the U.S. has faced for nearly a half-century that never really went away. Consequently, America has mostly postponed the long-term solution, which is ending […]
SAFE Commanding Heights Press Release on State of the Union
Washington, D.C. – President Biden gave his State of the Union Address as our nation confronts mounting global energy and supply chain crises. SAFE Commanding Heights, a bipartisan initiative dedicated to advancing reliable supply chains for essential goods and materials, called for bipartisan solutions in areas crucial to America’s economic and national security. Events in […]
SAFE Commanding Heights Book Discussion With Isaac Stone Fish
The relationship between the United States and China has gone through a myriad of changes over the past several decades, from partners to strategic competitors. How did we get here, and as China’s influence in the U.S. strengthens and our dangerous dependency grows, what does the future hold for Sino-American relations? Watch SAFE Commanding Heights’ […]
The West’s Delusion of Energy Independence – The New York Times
Sean Gallup/Getty Images Russia’s belligerence against Ukraine is underscoring once again the inextricable link between national security and energy security. Today, Russia is flexing its energy dominance over a dependent Europe. But tomorrow, the danger may come from China and its control over the raw materials that are key to a clean energy future. The […]
Taking Stock of Semiconductors
Towards the end of last year, the Biden administration tapped the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in response to rising gas prices. Whatever the merits of that decision, the existence of the stockpile provides a measure of both market and geopolitical stability. The federal government also maintains, with decidedly mixed success, stockpiles for personal protective equipment (created after 9/11 and […]
SAFE’s American Semiconductor Center Urges Passage of Vital Semiconductor Provisions in China Competition Bills
Washington, D.C. – As Congress considers broad steps to advance America’s competitiveness and restore its semiconductor leadership, the Co-Chairmen of the American Semiconductor Center, a new project of SAFE Commanding Heights, urged congressional leaders to act quickly on crucial semiconductor funding. Co-Chairs Michael Splinter, former Chairman and CEO of Applied Materials, and Admiral Jonathan W. Greenert, […]
Commanding Heights Joins IWP: Does America have the Industrial Base it needs to be a Great Power?
On January 27, The Institute of World Politics (IWP) hosted Dr. Jeb Nadaner, Executive Vice President of Government & Public Affairs and Executive Director of SAFE Commanding Heights, to speak on America’s deindustrialization, its impact on the country, and the steps needed to restore the industrial base. Moderated by IWP President Dr. James Anderson, the […]
SAFE Welcomes Allanté Whitmore as Director of Autonomous Vehicle Initiative
Washington, D.C. – SAFE is pleased to announce the appointment of Allanté Whitmore as Director of SAFE’s Autonomous Vehicle Initiative. Allanté brings an extensive background in autonomous vehicle (AV) technology and policy expertise from researching the environmental, equity, economic, and ethical impacts of AVs. She is currently completing a joint Ph.D. in the Department of […]
SAFE Commanding Heights Joins Nasdaq Trade Talks to Discuss Global Supply Chains, U.S. Manufacturing
Dr. Jeb Nadaner, Executive Director of SAFE Commanding Heights, joined Jill Malandrino on Nasdaq Trade Talks to discuss attracting manufacturing sectors back to the U.S. and allied countries. Watch the full interview above. […]
Think Globally, Source Locally for Electric Vehicles
If the U.S. is to effectively compete in the de-carbonized world, we must ensure the needed metals come from sources and methods that are as clean and sustainable as possible. That means we cannot exclude supplies of nickel sourced responsibly from within our borders, writes Abigail Wulf, Director of the Center for Critical Minerals Strategy […]
The Next Chapter of “Made in America”
Empty shelves and rising prices need not be the new normal or our national destiny. Instead, with the right mix of policy incentives and far-sighted leadership by the Congress, President, and American entrepreneurs, we can usher in the next chapter of “Made in America” — with our nation’s manufacturing sector once again expanding, developing a […]
Reviving U.S. Heavy Industry Would Build a Safer, More Sustainable World
The combination of “Buy American” and “Buy Clean” are not only moral imperatives, but they also advance our national and economic security by helping to secure critical industrial supply chains and the good jobs and wages they provide. It will take multiple years to get there but the results over the next two decades will […]
SAFE Announces 2021-2022 Class Of Energy Security Fellows
Washington, D.C.— Today, SAFE announced 19 new Fellows will join its 2021-22 Energy Security Fellows Program. The program, now running in its seventh consecutive year, provides the next generation of energy and national security professionals with access to high-level programming and networking opportunities. Through a series of monthly conversations with subject-matter experts, the program aims […]
SAFE Report Addresses How U.S. Industry Can Benefit from Climate Imperatives, Security Concerns
Washington, D.C. – Today, SAFE Commanding Heights issued Stoking an Industrial Renaissance: Opportunities for U.S. Decision-Makers. The report outlines policy proposals that can revitalize American manufacturing to compete in a world shaped by the rise of China and the value of reducing carbon emissions. Shortages of medical equipment, semi-conductors, and consumer goods leading up to […]
SAFE Applauds Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill
Washington, D.C.— As the House passes the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, sending it to President Biden’s desk for signature, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “We are shifting to a world powered by technology and built on batteries. Strengthening our nation’s infrastructure is vital if we wish to lead this switch. Passage […]
A Time To Choose: How The U.S. And Allies Can Maintain Semiconductor Leadership
From the F-35 to electric vehicles, semiconductors play a critical and strategic role both in our nation’s economic ambitions and U.S. national security goals. This role will only grow in importance, but the chronic semiconductor shortage is hampering the United States’ post-COVID economic recovery—and highlighting U.S. semiconductor supply chain vulnerabilities. Against this background, what can […]
Briefing on the Commanding Heights of Global Transportation Initiative and the Ambassador Alfred Hoffman, Jr. Center for Critical Minerals Strategy
On September 30, SAFE hosted a briefing to discuss the organization’s strategy to ensure U.S competitiveness with China on electric vehicles, semiconductors, minerals, and supply chains. Robbie Diamond, SAFE President & CEO, moderated the conversation between members of the SAFE leadership team, highlighting the Commanding Heights Initiative and the Ambassador Alfred Hoffman, Jr. Center for […]
To Meet EV and Solar Targets, Break Dependency on China, the United States Must Get Serious about Minerals
Addressing ongoing political hurdles for domestic mineral production and processing, SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “We recommend Congress look at the bigger picture when considering new mine development. Resources like copper, lithium, and nickel are not just vital for EVs, but also the wider transition to carbon-free energy. To meet the Administration’s […]
Examining Critical Mineral Supply Chains
SAFE’s Ambassador Alfred Hoffman, Jr. Center for Critical Minerals Strategy held a briefing and panel discussion to examine how mineral supply chains affect American competitiveness and national security. Minerals and metals form the basis of our increasingly electric and connected world: Do we risk off-shoring more U.S.-based manufacturing without re-shoring or nearshoring parts of the […]
White House Gas Price Probe Should Spark NOPEC Reintroduction
Washington, D.C.—As the White House directed the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate any anti-competitive conduct on gasoline prices, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “If the White House and the FTC want to comprehensively protect American consumers and businesses from price spikes at the pump, the root cause—OPEC collusion—must be […]
SAFE Commends Passage of Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal
Washington, D.C.—As the Senate passes the Bipartisan Infrastructure Deal, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The bill contains a range of important provisions that will stimulate investment across the U.S. EV supply chain, from minerals to markets.” “For years, the United States depended on an unstable oil market dominated by nations […]
SAFE Commends New Fuel Economy Standards As Catalyst For Electrification
Washington, D.C.—In response to the announcement on fuel economy standards by the Biden Administration, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “From the 1973 Oil Crisis to the Colonial Pipeline outage, breaks in the petroleum supply chain have caused price spikes at the pump and harmed businesses and consumers. For almost 50 […]
SAFE Commends White House EV Target Announcement, Calls For Action Across Supply Chain To Match
Washington D.C.—In response to President Biden’s announcement of a target of 40-50 percent electric vehicle sales share in 2030, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond and Abigail Wulf, SAFE’s Director of Critical Minerals Strategy, made the following statements: Robbie Diamond, President and CEO of SAFE, said: “Transportation is going electric, and the White House rightly recognizes what must be […]
Will unstable gas prices today be replaced by unstable mineral prices for batteries tomorrow?
Electric vehicles built on batteries and critical minerals will reduce oil related price spikes; herald a cleaner, more interconnected electric future, write Ambassador Alfred Hoffman Jr. and Abigail Wulf. (Read More) […]
SAFE Applauds Electric Transportation and Grid Provisions in Bipartisan Infrastructure Plan
Washington, DC—Responding to the Biden Administration’s announcement that a bipartisan infrastructure plan has been agreed upon ahead of Senate consideration, SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “This development signifies the emergence of a bipartisan consensus that the U.S. can and will compete with China in a central technology of the future: Electric vehicles. […]
SAFE Supports Critical Mineral and Electric Grid Provisions in New Senate Energy and Infrastructure Bill
Ahead of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resource’s meeting to consider a new bill to invest in American energy and outdoor infrastructure, SAFE sent the committee a letter in support of the new bill’s critical mineral and electric grid provisions. In the letter, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond says, “The world is […]
Reduce the Pentagon’s Dependence on China by Recharging US Battery, Electronics Industry
It is time to lift the fog of wishful thinking on U.S. security vulnerabilities, and Congress can take several steps in the upcoming NDAA. A growing bipartisan consensus recognizes the scale of the Chinese Communist Party challenge. This should not be a tough call – or a tough vote. Congress has the opportunity and power […]
Oil’s Spike On OPEC Discord Should Remind U.S. Not To Repeat Dependence Mistake With EVs
Washington, D.C.—As the price of oil reached a six-year high after OPEC+ failed to reach an agreement on future production coordination, SAFE EVP Jeffrey Jeb Nadaner made the following statement: “America’s reliance on a volatile oil market, dominated by a foreign cartel, was and remains strategically unwise. Our dependence on oil means that spikes in […]
SAFE EVP Outlines Supply Chain Risks To U.S. Security In Hudson Institute Paper
Washington, D.C.—In a new paper for the Hudson Institute, Jeffrey Jeb Nadaner, the executive vice-president of government and public affairs at SAFE and the executive director of SAFE’s Commanding Heights program, warns of the risks to U.S. economic and national security stemming from America’s offshored supply chains. In the paper, co-authored with the Hon. Ellen […]
Congress must pass $8 Billion USPS electrification proposal to jump-start US EV leadership
To break China’s EV supply chain hold and eliminate this national security vulnerability, the United States must move swiftly to electrify large sections of its vehicle fleet, creating the market demand that stimulates upstream investment in this country. The United States Postal Service next generation delivery vehicles is a good place to start. The current […]
Commercial Goods Transport: Widening the Road to Electrification
As the transportation sector begins to shift from a gasoline and diesel past to an electric future, commercial goods transport is at the center of an emerging strategic policy agenda. The electrification transformation is often discussed only in terms of personal mobility and passenger vehicles, however the medium-and heavy-duty (MHD) trucks on our nation’s roadways […]
100-Day Supply Chain Review Provides Crucial Reminder Of The Need To Secure Battery, Critical Minerals Supply Chains
Washington, D.C.—SAFE notes that the 100-day review of U.S. critical minerals, high-capacity battery and semiconductor supply chains, as ordered by the Biden administration in its February 24 Executive Order, provides a timely reminder of the need for the United States to build these supply chains both domestically and with American allies. Admiral Dennis Blair, former […]
SAFE Applauds Critical Electric Vehicle Provisions In Surface Transportation Reauthorization Bill
Washington, D.C.—In response to the electric vehicle (EV), autonomous vehicle, and vehicle charging provisions contained within the markup of the surface transportation reauthorization bill, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The shift from a gasoline past to a connected, electric, and autonomous future holds tremendous promise for U.S. economic and national […]
Minerals Processing: The Missing Middle Step In U.S. Battery Ambitions
The materials and components for EV batteries are still being shipped to the U.S. and to our allies from China, which still has a stranglehold on the vital—yet frequently overlooked—processing and refining step in the EV supply chain. The development of this capability must be our top priority in this area, write Gen. Michael Hagee […]
SAFE Applauds Biden’s EV Policy Commitment To Compete With China
Washington, D.C.—In response to remarks made by President Joe Biden during his visit to Ford’s Dearborn factory today, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “China is currently the runaway leader in the EV and battery industries, and President Biden is correct to define this as an issue of American economic prosperity […]
SAFE Testifies At Republican House Committee On Natural Resources Forum On Critical Minerals
In testimony to a Republican House Committee On Natural Resources forum on critical minerals, SAFE United States must address at least three areas in the critical minerals sector in order to gain ground on China in the race for leadership in the electric vehicle (EV) and battery supply chains. The United States must establish a […]
SAFE Taps Jeb Nadaner To Lead Commanding Heights And Abigail Wulf for Critical Minerals
Jeffrey Nadaner will lead SAFE’s Commanding Heights of Global Transportation while also serving as SAFE Executive Vice President of Government & Public Affairs; Abigail Wulf will head the newly-created Ambassador Alfred Hoffman, Jr. Center for Critical Minerals Strategy. Washington, D.C.—SAFE is pleased to announce that Jeffrey Jeb Nadaner has joined to lead the Commanding Heights […]
SAFE Calls On Congress To Realize Significant Societal, Economic Benefits Of AVs In House Hearing Letter
Washington, D.C.—In a letter submitted to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce hearing, “Promises and Perils: The Potential of Automobile Technologies,” SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond calls on Congress to allow autonomous vehicle (AV) deployment to fully realize the considerable economic and societal benefits of AV technology. […]
SAFE Hosts NHTSA Acting Administrator, Autonomous Vehicle Industry Executives For Event On Safe AV Deployment
Washington, D.C.—This afternoon, SAFE was joined by Dr. Steven Cliff, the Acting Administrator for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a host of autonomous vehicle (AV) and vehicle safety experts for an important and timely event on the pathways for safe AV deployment. After Dr. Cliff’s remarks, SAFE was joined by Nat Beuse, […]
SAFE Responds to Republican Infrastructure Plan
SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement regarding the Republican Infrastructure Roadmap released today: “While we agree with the Republican goals to boost economic growth, bolster against weather events, strengthen national security and improve Americans’ quality of life, we note the inexplicable absence of transportation electrification, which will be so integral to […]
SAFE Applauds Reintroduction of the Bipartisan, Bicameral Endless Frontier Act
In response to today’s reintroduction of the Endless Frontier Act, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “SAFE has been at the forefront of identifying the commanding lead China has in the race to the new transportation and energy future. Beijing’s considerable influence over every step of the EV supply chain necessitates […]
SAFE Launches New Vehicle-to-Grid Initiative with Roundtable Event
Washington, D.C.— Today, SAFE, and its Grid Security Project, launched a new Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) Initiative, in which it intends to help advance V2G applications on a more widespread basis. The V2G initiative was kicked off today by a joint SAFE-Electrification Coalition (EC) roundtable event that is intended to identify the key policy and regulatory challenges […]
To Support America’s Electrification, We’ll Need More Copper Than Ever Before
With all the focus on the need for critical minerals rather than copper, this oversight is ironic given that many of the critical minerals, like rhenium, are in fact common by-products of copper deposits. If the U.S. is to secure its EV industry, it must also focus on building a more robust copper supply chain, […]
United States Must Scale Up EV Spending To Chase Down Chinese Dominance Across the Supply Chain
Washington, D.C.—In response to reports that President Biden’s infrastructure plan contains $174 billion in funding for the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) industry, SAFE calls for bipartisan cooperation to overtake China’s vast control over the EV supply chain. Admiral Dennis Blair, former Director of National Intelligence and Chairman of SAFE, said: “A robust and growing EV […]
USPS Delivery Vehicle Decision Plays Directly Into China’s Hands
As electric vehicles become more prominent in our landscape, there is a huge battle underway for the inside of every electric vehicle. And while it may not seem like an important part of this international technology fight, the recent United States Postal Service’s much-anticipated contract to replace its current fleet of iconic delivery vehicles has […]
Building America’s Energy Future: A Conversation with Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm
The global transportation system is going electric. What can the U.S. do to lead this transition? U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm joined SAFE for an in-depth conversation on the energy transition, the United States’ need to lead this transition and its prospects for American jobs. In her remarks, she noted the U.S. Department of […]
The US Is Falling Behind China in the Race for Electric Vehicles
Unless things change, and soon, Beijing will corner the market on the materials, components, and vehicles that will power the 21st century economy, write SAFE Chairman Adm. Dennis Blair and SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond. (Read More) […]
SAFE Study Finds 647,000 Jobs Created in U.S. Transition to New Transportation Technologies.
Washington, D.C.— Calculating the labor market impact of the recommendations contained in its Commanding Heights of Global Transportation report, SAFE’s proposals create 647,000 jobs sustained over the next 1-5 years, according to independent research commissioned by SAFE. This research was conducted by Dr. Robert Wescott and Keybridge Public Policy Economics. “The auto sector is key […]
SAFE Commends White House Supply Chain Executive Order
Washington, D.C.—Responding to reports that President Biden will be signing an Executive Order to review the global supply chains for critical materials, including large capacity batteries, semiconductors and critical minerals, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The President’s reported actions cannot come a moment too soon. As we outlined in Commanding […]
SAFE Disappointed USPS Delivery Vehicle Contract Lacks Full Electrification Commitment
Washington, D.C.—In response to the announcement by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) that it has awarded a 10-year contract to Oshkosh Defense to build its Next Generation Delivery Vehicle (NGDV), SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “It is disappointing that today’s announcement does not immediately commit to electrifying one of our […]
Texas Outages Demonstrate Need For Supergrid, Energy Storage Provisions In Infrastructure Package
Washington, D.C.—Responding to the power outages in Texas due to the freezing temperatures in the state, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “Texas is suffering under the cascading crises of cold and COVID, and provides a sobering lesson of what can happen to communities when problems pile up and affect the […]
SAFE Congratulates Transportation Secretary Buttigieg On Senate Confirmation
Washington, D.C.— SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement regarding the confirmation of Pete Buttigieg as U.S. Secretary of Transportation: “As a former Midwest mayor, Secretary Buttigieg has extensive on-the-ground experience with federal transportation policy, and knows first-hand how good infrastructure can improve communities. We are pleased that he brings that ‘mayors […]
SAFE Commends GM Plan To Go EV-Only By 2035
Washington, D.C.—Responding to General Motors’ announcement that it plans to offer only electric vehicles by 2035, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “It is exciting to see a major U.S. automaker make such a bold statement that recognizes the future of transportation is electric, but comes with a warning that we […]
SAFE Applauds Biden Vehicle Electrification Announcement As Step Toward Competing With China For EV Dominance
Washington, D.C.—In response to President Biden’s announcement to electrify the entire U.S. government vehicle fleet, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The global transportation system is going electric, and the current supply chain is dominated by China. This announcement recognizes the need for America to compete with her biggest strategic rival […]
SAFE Applauds NHTSA Rulemaking On AV Design, Calls On Biden Administration To Maintain Momentum
Washington, D.C.—In response to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration finalizing its rulemaking on adjusting federal motor vehicle safety standards to account for new autonomous vehicle (AV) designs, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “This rulemaking optimizes self-driving safety, provides clarity for industry and is ultimately a very strong step toward […]
Saudi Unilateral Oil Cut Decision Must Propel U.S. Electrification Efforts
Washington, D.C.—In response to Saudi Arabia’s “political and sovereign” decision to unilaterally cut 1 million barrels per day of oil production in addition to other OPEC members maintaining output cuts, which has sent U.S. oil benchmark West Texas Intermediate above $50, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The Saudi government has […]
2019 NHTSA Traffic Fatality Statistics Show Urgent Need For Autonomous Vehicle And Driver-Assist Technology Deployment
Washington, D.C.—In response to figures published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that show 2019 road traffic fatalities falling to 36,096—a 2 percent fall from 36,835 in 2018—SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “This small reduction is positive but considerably inadequate. There were still more than 36,000 deaths on U.S. […]
The battery arms race is on, and the US is barely in the running
As the world transitions away from oil to one powered by EVs and batteries, the battery industry will take on enormous economic and strategic significance – and is dominated by China. Without concerted, comprehensive action, we could wake up 10 years from now and discover that we lost a race we didn’t compete in because […]
Critical Minerals Supply Chain Development Vital For American Economic And National Security
Washington, D.C.—In response to recently-published guidance opening loans totaling $42 billion from the Department of Energy’s Loan Programs Office for critical minerals projects, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “Tomorrow’s economies will be powered by batteries and electric transportation fed by a robust critical minerals supply chain, and the country that […]
As OPEC Decision Looms, SAFE Warns Against Making OPEC Policy Dependence Mistake Again With China And EVs
Washington D.C.—As global oil markets and the U.S. shale industry wait for an imminent decision from OPEC on whether to maintain its unprecedented oil production cuts, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “Relying on a commodity dominated by countries that do not share our strategic interests is no way to power […]
SAFE Criticizes FCC Safety Spectrum Cut
Washington, DC—After the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted yesterday to reassign a portion of the 5.9 GHz transportation safety band to allow use by unlicensed Wi-Fi content providers, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The future of transportation is connected transportation. The FCC’s decision to eat away at the spectrum set […]
SAFE Urges Comprehensive, Bipartisan Response To Chinese Industrial Leadership In Batteries, EVs And Other Mobility Technologies
Washington, D.C.— SAFE congratulates Joe Biden as President-elect and Kamala Harris as Vice President-elect and the first ever woman to achieve that. Now, as President-elect Biden begins to assemble his cabinet and the United States Senate and House of Representatives organize for the 117th Congress, SAFE calls for bipartisan action to create a comprehensive plan […]
China’s electric car strategy is starting to go global – and the U.S. is lagging behind
CNBC: In a future driven by electric vehicles, China is poised to dominate if the U.S. does not transform its automobile industry in coming years. In just one sign of how far ahead China has progressed in electric vehicle development, out of 142 lithium-ion battery megafactories under construction globally, 107 are set for China, versus […]
We Must Defend U.S. Transportation Leadership to Preserve Our Global Authority
China is consolidating control of emerging technologies of immense strategic and economic importance—including electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and 5G. Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and Admiral Dennis Blair, former director of national intelligence and commander of U.S. forces in the Pacific, say ceding leadership in these technologies seriously threatens our national security and privacy, and outline […]
Biden win could be net positive for metals and mining, observers say
Platts: Democrats are clearly very focused on the deployment but have acknowledged that we need to have the minerals, the industrial base, and Republicans are very on top of the upstream both for defense and other reasons, said Robbie Diamond, president and CEO of Securing America’s Future Energy, a D.C.-based nonprofit that advocates for the […]
The world must counter China’s dominance of rare earths
Chinese dominance in rare earths is just the tip of the iceberg. The country has gained — and is determined to retain — a tight grip on a broad swath of minerals that form the foundations of tomorrow’s most important industries, argue General James T. Conway and Peter Ackerman of SAFE’s Energy Security Leadership Council. […]
SAFE Applauds Cruise, California DMV For Permit To Go Fully Driverless
Washington, D.C.—In response to reports that autonomous vehicle (AV) developer Cruise has received a permit from California’s DMV to deploy electric, self-driving vehicles without a backup driver, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “This is a timely milestone for self-driving deployment and speeding the safety benefits of AVs. As the country […]
Is Electromobility A Critical National Security Issue?
Inside EVs: China is securing control of assets all along the electromobility supply chain, from mineral extraction to battery production to vehicle manufacture, as the advocacy group Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) recently pointed out. (Read More) […]
Having Bipartisan Support, U.S. Energy & Environmental Security Depends On Mining
Forbes: A recent report from Securing America’s Future Energy makes minerals, and boosting domestic mineral output, a key piece of the effort to win the future of mobility. More critical mining production has become an noncontroversial, bipartisan initiative, uniting various interests from coal executives to climate hawks. (Read More) […]
SAFE Applauds China Task Force Recommendations, Calls For More Comprehensive Response
Washington, D.C.—In response to the recommendations released today by the Republican China Task Force, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The Task Force correctly diagnoses the risk of a rising China to American security and industrial base and is right to call for a bipartisan, whole-of-government response, but even more should […]
China EV ambitions threat to entire US auto industry – report
Mining.com: A bipartisan, federal response is required for the United States to compete with China’s ownership of the next generation of transportation, according to a new report from Securing America’s Future Energy. (Read More) […]
Geopolitical concerns lurk behind an EV future
Automotive News: China has consolidated control of key supply chains needed to produce EVs at global scale, according to the report from Securing America’s Future Energy, a nonpartisan group of military and business leaders that examines the convergence of energy policy and the transportation industry. (Read More) […]
SAFE Urges Bipartisan, Coordinated Policy To Lead New Tech in Auto Industry and Protect Against Chinese Supply Chain Dominance In New Report
Paper confirms Chinese industrial strategy has given the country vast control over virtually every aspect of EV and battery supply chain and focus on autonomy, 5G, and AI; U.S. could lose core of its industrial sector without focused plan to compete. Washington, D.C.—A bipartisan, federal response is required for the United States to compete with […]
US urged to subsidise electric cars on national security grounds
Financial Times: The US must urgently build up an electric vehicles industry or risk becoming dependent on China for its automotive future, a group of senior military and business leaders have warned. (Read More) […]
SAFE Announces 2020-21 Class Of Energy Security Fellows
Washington, D.C.—SAFE announced today 27 new Fellows will join its 2020-21 Energy Security Fellows Program. The program provides the next generation of energy, transportation and national security professionals with access to high-level programming and networking opportunities, connecting them with individuals interested in advancing the national conversation on the future of American energy security. Fellows will […]
The Commanding Heights Of Global Transportation
On September 24, SAFE launched The Commanding Heights of Global Transportation, a paper that assesses the competing ambitions of the United States and China for the future of global transportation, and offers policy recommendations to maintain U.S. leadership in this critical industry. Click here to read the report A bipartisan, federal response is required for […]
AVs Can Open Up Greater Economic Opportunities For Low-Income Communities Left Out By Today’s Transportation, New SAFE Study Finds
Washington, D.C.—Autonomous vehicles (AVs) hold significant potential to open up wider economic opportunities currently beyond the reach of many low-income households due to inadequate transportation, a new study by SAFE finds. The report, “Fostering Economic Opportunity through Autonomous Vehicle Technology,” concludes that on-demand, point-to-point AV transit can cut financial stress by providing reliable, affordable and […]
SAFE Calls For Greater Urgency In Leading Development Of Tomorrow’s Transportation Technologies that are Key to U.S. Jobs and Industry
Washington, D.C.—In response to former Vice President Biden’s call to step up investments in owning tomorrow’s technologies, including batteries, SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “Transportation is on the cusp of a global shift to an electric, connected and autonomous future. Sitting on the sidelines while China spends billions to lead […]
Fostering Economic Opportunity through Autonomous Vehicle Technology
SAFE hosted a conversation between leading autonomous vehicle (AV) analysts to mark the launch of “Fostering Economic Opportunity through Autonomous Vehicle Technology”, a SAFE paper that addresses how AVs can redress imbalances for low-income communities, whose options are limited by inadequacies in today’s transportation. Alisyn Malek, Executive Director of the Commission on the Future of […]
SAFE Applauds United Nations Global AV Milestone
Washington, D.C.—Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) commends the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) for its regulation on automated lane keeping systems (ALKS)—the first such international binding agreement of its kind, and adopted by a forum of which SAFE is part. “If we are to realize the tremendous societal promise of autonomous driving, it […]
SAFE Applauds Key Transportation, Energy Programs In House Infrastructure Stimulus Package
Washington, D.C.—Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) commends the U.S. House of Representatives’ inclusion of a number of key transportation and energy provisions in H.R. 2, the Moving Forward Act, that will enhance the country’s economic recovery, bolster U.S. energy security and strengthen the United States’ hand against China’s current lead in the next era of […]
Fuel Economy Rules Undermine U.S. Energy Security
The Trump administration’s decision to roll back fuel economy standards is based on a complete misunderstanding of the OPEC-led international oil market, argues General Carlton D. Everhart of Securing America’s Future Energy. He says the standards condemn the U.S. to greater reliance on a commodity controlled by countries that do not share U.S. strategic priorities—and […]
To Speed Our COVID-19 Recovery, Let’s Get America Moving Again
Smarter stimulus spending in key sectors such as transportation can ensure they bounce back stronger than they were, creating a more robust and resilient economy as a result. SAFE’s Get America Moving Again report contains recommendations that can achieve this smarter spending goal, write Adm. Dennis Blair, former Director of National Intelligence and Commander-In-Chief, U.S. […]
SAFE Applauds Electric Vehicle and Active Transportation Provisions In INVEST In America Act
Washington, D.C.—Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) commends provisions in the newly-released Investing In A New Vision For The Environment And Surface Transportation In America Act (INVEST In America) by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, which will strengthen our economy through increased investments in next-generation transportation technologies. “Investing in the future of transportation now […]
Get America Moving Again: Manufacturing
Thursday, May 21, 3:30-4:30pm ET. Zoom webinar: Please click here to register. As highlighted in SAFE’s recent Get America Moving Again (GAMA) report, the U.S. automotive and truck manufacturing industries support 9.9 million American jobs and the sector is critical to the recovery of our economy. To stimulate future growth, Congress must not focus simply […]
SAFE Releases Comprehensive Plan To Get America Moving Again (GAMA)
Washington, D.C.—Alongside its tragic human cost, COVID-19 has illuminated the vulnerabilities of our economy, with more than 30 million Americans losing their jobs in just six weeks. To catalyze the country’s recovery and strengthen the U.S. economy, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) is releasing Get America Moving Again (GAMA), a detailed plan focused on the […]
Guest Op-Ed: Micromobility Can Get America Moving Again
As Congress considers legislation to get the nation moving again after the COVID-19 crisis, it should consider how micromobility could accelerate our economic recovery while America’s planes, trains, and automobiles get back up to speed, say Mark Joseph, CEO of Mobitas Advisors and Robbie Diamond, President and CEO of SAFE. (Read More) […]
Oil’s Unbelievable Fall Must Spark US Energy Dominance Rethink
Oil prices falling to -$37 must provoke policymakers to rethink what energy dominance looks like—as it is clear the U.S. economy is reliant upon a commodity beyond American control and dominated by countries that do not share our priorities, writes General James T. Conway, 34th Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps and Robbie Diamond, President and CEO […]
SAFE Applauds Auto Industry Commitment to Deploy Connected Vehicles to Retain Spectrum
Washington, D.C.—In response to the Alliance for Automotive Innovation sending a letter in support of preserving the 5.9 GHz “Safety Spectrum” to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai and Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “The FCC’s plan to reallocate the Safety Spectrum […]
SAFE Urges Against Prorating In Letter To Texas Railroad Commission
Washington, D.C.—Ahead of tomorrow’s meeting by the Railroad Commission of Texas to consider prorating oil production in the state, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond submitted a letter urging against the practice. The letter calls upon the Commission to consider the long-term energy security consequences of such a decision. In the letter, he […]
OPEC+ Decision Highlights U.S. Need To Reduce Oil Dependence
Washington, D.C.—As reports emerge of Saudi Arabia, Russia and OPEC+ agreeing to cut oil production, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) believes the United States must decouple its economy from the boom-bust oil market cycle engineered by the cartel and led by Saudi Arabia to maintain its grip on the oil market. “Saudi Arabia and Russia […]
SAFE Warns Against Market Manipulation to Combat Manipulation As Oil CEOs Convene For White House Meeting
Washington, D.C.—In response to reports emerging from today’s White House meeting with oil industry CEOs that the discussions included potential cuts in U.S. production, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “A global production cut is not going to solve the structural deficiency of the oil market, which contributed […]
It is time to stop letting Saudi Arabia push us around and protect our energy dominance
The effects of COVID-19 and the Saudi-Russia price war on the U.S. oil industry demonstrates the need for a comprehensive energy dominance strategy, write Adm. Dennis Blair, former Director of National Intelligence and Commander-In-Chief, U.S. Pacific Command and Gen. Michael Hagee, 33rd Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps (Read More) […]
SAFE Issue Brief Calls For American Commitment To Free And Fair Oil Market
Washington, D.C.—Ahead of a White House meeting between President Trump and American oil executives tomorrow, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) has released an issue brief calling on policymakers to reiterate the United States’ commitment to free and fair markets—with passing the No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act (NOPEC) as a strong first step. The issue brief, […]
Coronavirus-OPEC One-Two Punch Shows Need for U.S. Energy Dominance
American oil companies, already drowning in debt and struggling with the impacts of coronavirus, were blindsided by the recent Saudi-led price war. General James Conway, 34th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, and John Lehman, former U.S. Secretary of the Navy, say Covid-19 and the Saudi-led price war show the U.S. needs a plan for […]
New Fuel Economy Rules Guarantee Industry Uncertainty At The Worst Moment
Washington, D.C.—In response to today’s release of new fuel economy rules by the Trump administration, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO, Robbie Diamond, made the following statement: “At such a difficult time when regulatory certainty is needed more than ever in our auto industry, these rules will plunge U.S. automakers into even greater […]
SAFE Urges For Comprehensive Energy Solution Over Saudi Oil Alliance
Washington, D.C.—In response to reports that the Trump administration is considering the possibility of Saudi Arabia quitting OPEC to manipulate the oil market alongside the United States, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “This measure is a betrayal of America’s commitment to free markets, and is a […]
Senators’ Letter To Saudi Arabia Shows Need For Real Energy Dominance
Washington, D.C.—In response to a letter sent by members of the U.S. Senate asking Saudi Arabia to slow oil production as the kingdom engages in a price war with Russia, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “While the United States is the world’s largest oil producer, continued […]
SAFE President and CEO: With the Flick of a Switch, Saudi Arabia’s Decision Exposes Need For Real U.S. Energy Dominance
Washington, D.C—As the repercussions from Saudi Arabia’s decision to raise production continue to be felt in the U.S. energy industry, Robbie Diamond, President and CEO of Securing America’s Future Energy, made the following statement: “With a flick of a switch, Saudi Arabia has sent oil prices into a freefall—threatening bankruptcies and vast unemployment in the […]
SAFE Submits Comments and Letter Opposing FCC Plan To Cut Vehicle Safety Spectrum
Washington, D.C.—In response to the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) proposed rule that would reallocate portions of the 5.9 GHz spectrum away from connected vehicle (V2X) applications, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) submitted comments noting that revoking this spectrum from transportation applications will indefinitely forestall the realization of the significant safety and efficiency benefits of vehicle connectivity. “It […]
Saudi Arabia’s OPEC+ Price War Continues To Show Urgent Need For U.S. To End Oil Dependence
Washington, D.C.—As Saudi Arabia ramps up production and slashes prices in the wake of OPEC+ failing to agree on supply manipulation and the subsequent 30 percent drop in oil prices, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “American oil consumers and producers are only bystanders as Saudi Arabia […]
SAFE Applauds Bloomberg Philanthropies’ Additional $240 Million Commitment to Curb Traffic Deaths Worldwide
Washington, D.C.—In response to Bloomberg Philanthropies’ announcement that it will commit a further $240 million to its support for global road safety, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “We commend Bloomberg Philanthropies for this generous additional commitment to help curb traffic deaths worldwide. In 2018, more than 36,000 people […]
SAFE Renews Call for Federal AV Legislation in Letter of Record For House Hearing
Washington, D.C.—In connection with a hearing of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection and Commerce on autonomous vehicle (AV) technologies, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) submitted a letter for the hearing record which calls for the establishment of a federal AV framework as a priority for America’s energy security, economy, […]
SAFE Applauds NHTSA Approval of Nuro Self-Driving Petition
Washington, D.C.—In response to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA’s) approval of Nuro’s exemption petition to test driverless electric vehicles with novel designs on public roads, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “Granting this exemption is an incredibly important step forward in fully realizing the tremendous […]
SAFE Responds To President Trump’s Energy Independence Assertion
Washington, D.C.— Today, President Trump declared that the United States has achieved energy independence. Regrettably, his assertion fails to appreciate the country’s overwhelming dependence on oil and the risk it poses to our economy. “While increased domestic crude production has definitely improved America’s energy security, we must not mistake this for energy independence. Our domestic production […]
SAFE Applauds Workforce And Accessibility Focus in Department of Transportation’s AV 4.0
Washington, D.C.—The Department of Transportation today released the Trump administration’s third major document relating to AV policy, Ensuring American Leadership in Automated Vehicle Technologies: Automated Vehicles 4.0 (“AV 4.0”). AV 4.0 provides a full overview of the range of activities that the entire U.S. government is undertaking to prepare for automated vehicles (AVs). The document catalogs the […]
Soleimani Strike, Increased U.S. Presence in Middle East Stresses Importance of Ending Dependence on Oil
Washington, D.C.—In response to the killing of Iranian Quds Force general Qassem Soleimani in a U.S. airstrike near Baghdad airport, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “We need to ask ourselves why the United States keeps sending troops to the Middle East and the persistent answer is […]
SAFE Responds To Passing Of General P.X. Kelley
Washington, D.C.—In response to news of the passing of General Paul X. Kelley, the 28th Commandant of the United States Marine Corps and Chairman Emeritus of Securing America’s Future Energy’s (SAFE) Energy Security Leadership Council (ESLC), SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond made the following statement: “As a founder of the Rapid Reaction Joint Task Force […]
OPEC Agreement Ahead of Aramco IPO Latest Example of Cartel’s Collusion
Washington, D.C.—Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) released the following statement in response to reports that OPEC has agreed to deepen production cuts by 500,000 barrels per day. “American policymakers have ignored the collusive and anti-competitive behavior of OPEC and its allies for far too long,” said Robbie Diamond, President and CEO of SAFE. “Colluding fleeces […]
SAFE Calls For Expedited Federal AV Framework In Letter For Senate Hearing
Washington, D.C.—In connection with a Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee hearing on the development of safety technology for autonomous vehicles (AVs), Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) submitted a letter for the hearing record which calls for the establishment of a federal AV framework as an economic and national security priority. In the letter, submitted […]
SAFE Makes Energy Security Case for EVs in Letter for House Hearing
Washington, D.C.—In connection with a hearing today with the House Committee on Energy & Commerce’s Subcommittee on Environment and Climate Change on moving away from petroleum-based fuels in the transportation sector, Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) submitted a letter for the hearing record that outlined the economic and national security need for reducing our dependence […]
Deploying More Troops In Saudi Arabia Emphasizes National Security Need To Reduce U.S. Oil Dependence
Washington, D.C.—Reports that thousands of additional U.S. troops are to be sent to Saudi Arabia, in response to the September 14 attacks on Saudi Aramco’s Abqaiq oil processing facility, are an urgent reminder for the United States to reduce its overwhelming reliance on oil. The news comes after reports that an Iranian oil tanker was […]
Federal funding for Chinese buses risks our national security
China is America’s single largest strategic rival, working to undermine U.S. authority on the global stage by taking control of a variety of critical emerging industries — the electric vehicle (EV) industry in particular. Beijing has declared capturing the EV supply chain to be a strategic priority, but Congress has a chance to counter this […]
Autonomous Vehicles Have Ability to Transform Society, Panelists Say
The report predicts autonomous vehicles will contribute some $800 billion annually “in economic and societal benefits” when AVs are fully deployed. The benefits will come from cost savings related to reduced crashes, fuel efficiency and better access to transportation. (Read More) […]
Self-Driving Cars Likely Won’t Steal Your Job (Until 2040)
A new report finds that while some jobs, like trucking, will eventually fade, autonomous tech will benefit the economy overall. In fact, they’ll eventually feed the economy, accruing an estimated $800 billion in annual benefits by 2050, a number mostly in line with previous researchers’ projections. (Read More) […]
U.S. Oil Reserve Would Fall Nearly in Half Under Budget Deal
Geopolitical risk is alive and well in the oil market, and the SPR is America’s only formal short-term line of defense against oil supply disruptions and price spikes, says SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond. (Read More) […]
EPA, California must compromise in their fight over weakened fuel-efficiency standards, experts say
SAFE CEO Robbie Diamond believes California and the Trump administration should compromise on new national fuel economy standards to provide more certainty in the marketplace and eliminate the prospect of a legal battle. (Read More) […]
Report: Trucking undergoing ‘technological revolution’
Big gains in fuel efficiency and safety lay ahead if policymakers give the industry ‘flexibility’ to achieve them, group says. (Read More) […]
Report: Advanced tech can bring huge fuel savings to trucking industry
A new report from Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) says advanced technologies can bring huge fuel savings in the oil-thirsty trucking industry — if Congress and federal agencies make policy changes that catalyze their deployment. (Read More) […]
New Report Suggests Workforce, Safety Concerns for Automated Trucks Are Overblown
Commercial trucking is likely to be one of the first sectors that benefits from vehicle automation and connectivity, according to a new report from Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE). (Read More) […]
Environmentalists, automakers fight over Trump’s proposed fuel efficiency standards rollback
Robbie Diamond, CEO and president of Securing America’s Future Energy, insists there is a deal to be had that accommodates the concerns of both sides. “It is in no one’s interest to have competing standards between our largest state and the rest of the country,” Diamond said. (Read More) […]
Opinion: National Security Interests Best Served by Modern Fuel Economy Standards
As the world’s largest consumer of this critical commodity with a transportation system that is 92 percent powered by oil, the United States is particularly vulnerable to the economic stress of price spikes and volatility. A technical review of existing fuel economy standards is underway, creating an opportunity for regulators in the federal government and […]
Industry-Backed Bill Would Create Federal Rules for Autonomous Vehicles
Eric Danko, SAFE’s vice president of government affairs and coalitions management, said that it’s possible this was an oversight since low-emissions vehicles are the only category of exemptions left out of the legislation — but it is an issue that needs to be rectified before moving forward. (Read More) […]
LTE: Electric Cars Help America Depend Less on Oil
If America is to remain prosperous and secure in the 21st century, we must reduce our oil dependence by ensuring fuel diversity. Electric vehicles running on diverse and domestic fuels like nuclear, natural gas, coal or renewables are our opportunity to break oil’s monopoly. Unless we act, 90% of our transportation network will remain oil […]
Blind ‘Drivers’ Step Up to Shape U.S. Push for Driverless Cars
Requiring that passengers in an autonomous vehicle that needs no human intervention have a driver’s license is a “needless restriction” that would blunt the impact of the technology on the disabled community, Securing America’s Future Energy said in a recent study commissioned along with the Ruderman Family Foundation, an advocacy group for the disabled. (Read […]
Smart Columbus: What Does it Mean for Mobility?
Robbie Diamond, a consultant to the team from SAFE, Securing America’s Future Energy, believes the key is getting CEOs to commit to electric vehicles for their personal use, to purchase electric vehicles for corporate fleets and to expand the number of charging stations for personal vehicles parked at the office. (Read More) […]
Trump Wants to Sell Half the U.S. Strategic Oil Reserve For More Cash
The White House said it would roughly halve the amount of crude stored in the SPR over the next ten years, selling off 270 million barrels of oil and leaving 260 million in reserve. SAFE President and CEO Robbie Diamond termed the move as “misguided.” (Read More) […]
Trump Proposes Selling Off Half U.S. Strategic Oil Reserve
The White House plan to trim the national debt includes selling off half of the nation’s emergency oil stockpile and the entire backup gasoline supply, but Securing America’s Future Energy believes the Strategic Petroleum Reserve is “America’s only formal short-term line of defense against oil supply disruptions and price spikes.” (Read More) […]
Gray Matters: The future of driving
According to a study by Securing America’s Future Energy published in January, self-driving cars are the wave of the future. Technology is on its way to on-demand mobility solutions that will impact everyone on numerous levels. Beyond transportation, this technology will affect our economy, our energy independence and issues related to national security. The benefits […]
Trump Plans to Review Fuel Economy Standards, and Maybe That’s a Good Thing
Securing America’s Future Energy, a nonpartisan organization dedicated to reducing U.S. dependence on foreign oil and an advocate for fuel-efficient cars, noted that a review of fuel economy standards could improve the existing regulations by accounting for new technologies and business models. (Read More) […]
In Michigan Visit, President Trump Reopens Review of Fuel-Economy Standards
Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE), a nonpartisan think tank that explores energy and transportation policy with the goal of promoting economy and national security, believes a broader focus on the entire mobility system, rather than individual vehicles, will result in reductions in oil demand as well as less burdensome regulations. (Read More) […]
Trump to reopen review of US fuel efficiency standards
Although the move to reassess Obama-era decision threatens to slow the development of electric cars, Robbie Diamond, president of Securing America’s Future Energy, said there was “no reason for environmentalists, automakers and conservatives to risk a nuclear war over these rules”. (Read More) […]
Trump won’t seek to roll back California vehicle authority
As President Trump announced a review of fuel economy standards, Securing America’s Energy Future (SAFE)—a non-partisan group of energy advocates and retired military leaders—urged the federal government, California and others to work together. (Read More) […]
Trump takes steps toward undoing Obama’s auto emissions limits
President Donald Trump will tap the brakes Wednesday on the Obama administration’s tightening of future vehicle emissions limits. Securing America’s Future Energy, a group focused on reducing dependence on oil, called for all sides to come to the table. (Read More) […]
Car ownership may decrease in the U.S.—here’s why
At CES 2017, SAFE’s Commission on Autonomous Vehicle Testing and Safety launched its best-practice recommendations for self-driving cars, which demonstrate that shared, electric AVs are a good path toward achieving energy security. (Read more) […]
Self-Driving Cars: The Three Legs of Future Mobility
Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) is a nonprofit organization composed primarily of military and business leaders determined to develop and advocate for policies that improve America’s energy security by curtailing our dependence on oil. Think electric. Last year, SAFE put together a blue-ribbon panel of experts to study the testing of AVs, making recommendations for […]
How driverless cars can empower Americans with disabilities
According to a new report, Self-Driving Cars: The Impact on People with Disabilities, released yesterday by the Ruderman Family Foundation and Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE), the potential of driverless vehicles to liberate Americans with disabilities from transportation issues, bring more people into the workforce, and save substantially on health care, is vast. (Read more.) […]
Autonomous cars are ‘the vaccine that will cure deaths on the road’, says industry figurehead
Robbie Diamond, CEO of Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE), addressed media at CES 2017 in Las Vegas, where he said autonomous vehicles could be a way of dramatically cutting down the road toll on a global level. (Read more.) […]
California’s Race to Regulate Slams Brakes on Innovation
The U.S. government is prepared to treat artificial intelligence in Google’s “self-driving” car as a legal “driver,” likely clearing a major obstacle on the way to reinventing transportation as we know it. Unfortunately, as they race to catch up with the automotive and tech industries, regulators may end up sending American mobility backwards, not forwards. […]
Driverless cars could go on sale by 2018, says former GM exec
Driverless electric cars are closer to becoming a reality, but issues still exist. Nearly 3,000 roadway deaths could be prevented worldwide every day if humans could be removed from the driving equation. Nobody’s talking about taking people out of their cars, but rather, taking them out of the driver’s seat. (Read More.) […]
Toyota and US think tank moving to bring forth the demise of the internal combustion engine
For years there have been reports of the internal combustion engines’ approaching death and they might all be entirely premature, but events unfolding around the world are now establishing a favorable climate for the successor technologies. Read More. […]
SAFE launches Autonomous Vehicle Task Force
Securing America’s Future Energy (SAFE) has formed an Autonomous Vehicle Task Force, a group of leading experts who will guide SAFE as it develops an action plan to facilitate the widespread deployment of this technology. Read More. […]
World of driverless pods could transform mobility
Larry Burns, professor of engineering practice at the University of Michigan, sketched a future of driverless, intercommunicating, on-demand, two-seat “pods” that will dramatically alter how we get around at an Oct. 14 Newsmakers Event at the National Press Club. Read More. […]
Toyota, new task force could boost non-gas options
Reports of the internal combustion engine’s demise may be premature, but two events Wednesday could make it happen sooner. Toyota said that it intends to cut the average emissions from its vehicles by 90% from 2010 to 2050. That means conventional gasoline-only vehicles will be a small minority of its products as hybrids and fuel cells […]
Group launches task force to speed driverless cars
A group working to reduce U.S. oil use is launching a task force to help development of self-driving cars. Experts believe the widespread adoption of autonomous vehicles will eventually dramatically reduce oil use by sharply reducing congestion, avoiding crashes and maintaining proper distance between vehicles. Read More. […]
Blair: Reducing Fuel Use by Trucks to Improve Energy Security
Implementing stronger efficiency standards for heavy-duty trucks is not just about climate policy. The Environmental Protection Agency’s proposal for regulating trucks will improve American energy security by reducing our dangerous oil dependence. Read More. […]
OPEC maintains output. Is anyone steering oil markets? (+video)
The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) announced it would keep oil output unchanged during its meeting Friday. That inaction won’t answer any of the myriad questions surrounding the future of the world’s most dominant fuel. Read More. […]
