Trump rolling out executive orders for energy companies

Trump will announce 2 executive orders in Houston on Wednesday to help energy companies "avoid unnecessary red tape" in order to speed up development of pipelines and other projects, a White House aide said.

Why it matters: While U.S. oil and natural gas production is already at record levels, companies have chafed at the regulatory process for some infrastructure projects, notably battles over gas pipelines in the Northeast.

But, but, but: There isn't enough information yet to know whether the orders will assert new powers that will speed up development. Executive orders range from consequential moves to more symbolic documents that signal a chief executive's priorities.

What's next: Trump will discuss the orders in remarks Wednesday at the International Union of Operating Engineers' training center in Houston.

What they're saying: The White House aide said the orders are aimed at expanding oil-and-gas production, spurring more private infrastructure investment, streamlining permitting, and "further reducing regulations."

• The goal is to allowing the U.S. to "continue to be the undisputed global leader in crude oil and natural gas production for the foreseeable future."  
• "American families and businesses in states with energy restrictions will be able to access affordable and reliable domestic energy resources," the aide said.

Go deeper:

• Trump heads to Houston Wednesday to boost oil and gas sector (Houston Chronicle)
• Trump to sign executive order to speed up pipeline development (Axios)
• White House eyes energy push as Russia strategy (Politico)