The Trump administration has scheduled a major offshore oil and gas lease sale in the Gulf of America for December 10, 2025. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) will offer 15,000 blocks across 80 million acres, part of the 2024–2029 Outer Continental Shelf leasing plan.
The lease sale sets a royalty rate of 16.67%, a move aimed at boosting offshore investment. The Gulf currently supplies 97% of U.S. federal offshore oil output, providing 14% of the nation’s crude and 2% of its natural gas.
This is the first of three planned lease sales, fulfilling legal requirements under the Inflation Reduction Act to support both fossil fuel and wind energy development. The last auction, held under President Trump, raised $382 million from companies like Shell and Chevron.
Energy advocates say the sale signals a return to America-first energy policy. Critics from environmental groups oppose the move, warning it undercuts climate goals. The administration has made clear its priority is energy independence, not regulatory appeasement.
