In a recent statement, Amin Nasser, CEO of Saudi Aramco, expressed his support for "realistic" green transition policies, particularly in the context of a potential U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump. Speaking at the Saudi Green Initiative Forum in Riyadh, Nasser emphasized that policies with practical standards would benefit the U.S. energy sector by making it easier to meet its goals.

Nasser's comments come as discussions intensify around the energy policies of the incoming U.S. administration. As Trump is poised to return to the White House, questions loom about his stance on climate change, with activists fearing a rollback of Biden-era green initiatives. Trump has previously advocated for a more fossil-fuel-friendly approach, aligning with the interests of energy industry stakeholders.

"I think it's always good for the industry in the U.S. to have more realistic standards for them to achieve their goals," Nasser stated, highlighting the importance of practical policies in expanding energy production.

Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil producer, has consistently argued for a measured transition that doesn’t jeopardize energy security. Nasser added that rapid shifts toward green energy without considering the economic impact could lead to unforeseen challenges. “Unrealistic views” and aggressive mandates, he argued, may result in economic disruption without addressing the underlying realities of energy production and consumption.

The comments come as climate policies are expected to shift with Trump's return to power. Under the Biden administration, the U.S. took significant strides toward decarbonization, with key legislation such as the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law supporting clean energy projects. However, Trump’s rhetoric on energy policy suggests a possible reversal of these initiatives. His administration may seek to undo Biden’s green policies, including rejoining the fossil fuel industry and rolling back environmental regulations.

During his previous presidency, Trump prioritized boosting fossil fuel production, pledging to increase drilling permits and oil production. This pro-fossil fuel stance may be a central theme in his upcoming term, especially with his selection of Chris Wright, a staunch defender of the oil and gas industry, to lead the Department of Energy.

Aramco, despite its commitment to achieving net-zero Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 2050, has advocated for maintaining a role for fossil fuels in the global energy mix during the transition. While the company has paused plans to increase oil production capacity, it aims to reduce emissions from its operations, echoing the broader Saudi strategy that balances energy production with environmental goals.