Goldman Sachs MD Neil Mehta speaks to Energy Sec. Chris Wright at energy conference — 1/7/2026

The conversation centers on the U.S. energy landscape, with a focus on oil, natural gas, nuclear energy, and rare earth minerals. Secretary Chris Wright assesses the U.S. energy industry as "fantastic," highlighting the tripled liquid production and doubled natural gas production. However, he criticizes the electricity sector's rising costs and declining reliability due to policies promoting intermittent sources. Wright advocates for nuclear energy, emphasizing its potential for continuous power and high-temperature process heat. He also addresses the need to rebuild domestic uranium enrichment capabilities and the strategic importance of rare earth mineral production. The discussion includes the potential for increased oil production in Venezuela and the role of U.S. companies in its energy sector's recovery.