California and UK Forge Clean Energy Partnership Amidst Trump Administration Rollbacks

California and the United Kingdom have announced a new clean energy partnership, aiming to boost technology sharing and investment in renewable energy sources. This collaboration comes as both regions navigate domestic political challenges and as the US federal government under President Donald Trump continues to roll back environmental regulations.

Strengthening Ties in the Face of Policy Shifts

The agreement, signed on Monday, February 16, 2026, by UK Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and California Governor Gavin Newsom, focuses on accelerating the “global race for clean power.” Both leaders are positioning themselves as champions of clean energy and highlighting the economic benefits of industries like wind and solar. Miliband has called on UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to demonstrate stronger commitment to net-zero goals, while Newsom has criticized Trump’s policies as detrimental to climate leadership, arguing they inadvertently benefit China.

Economic Growth in the Clean Energy Sector

According to claims made during the announcement, California is experiencing three times more job creation in the clean energy sector compared to other parts of the state’s economy. Miliband also stated that the UK’s “net zero economy” is growing at a faster rate than the nation’s overall GDP. The partnership seeks to further capitalize on these trends by opening up the Californian market to UK clean energy companies and fostering export opportunities.

US Regulatory Rollbacks and the EPA’s “Endangerment Finding”

The agreement arrives less than a week after the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) repealed the 2009 “endangerment finding.” This landmark ruling had provided the legal foundation for regulating carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, enabling the EPA to impose restrictions on emissions from various sources. Climate advocacy groups are preparing to challenge the repeal in court, fearing it will lead to a broader rollback of clean energy regulations and hinder the transition away from fossil fuels. The Trump administration previously eliminated a consumer tax credit for electric vehicles and attempted to prevent California from implementing stricter emissions standards, as well as hindering the wind industry.

Investment and Collaboration

The partnership extends beyond policy alignment to include concrete investment plans. British energy company Octopus Energy, following a visit from Newsom to its London headquarters, announced investments in two Californian carbon removal companies focused on grassland restoration and reforestation. These companies will generate carbon credits anticipated to be purchased by several Massive Tech firms. Octopus also plans to invest in “heat batteries” designed to replace fossil-fuel boilers in challenging industrial sectors and acquire a solar and battery project in California. Octopus Energy US CEO Nick Chaset stated the deal will “open up opportunities” for the company to expand its technology into the US market.

Beyond Energy: Biodiversity and Resilience

The collaboration also encompasses shared expertise in protecting biodiversity and enhancing community resilience to extreme weather events. This is particularly relevant given the recent widespread flooding in the UK and a historic cold snap in parts of the US.