The U.S. Energy Foundation presents itself as a nonprofit championing clean energy, but in reality, it plays a powerful behind-the-scenes role in shaping public policy through well-funded advocacy and lobbying efforts. Founded in 1991, the foundation funnels millions of dollars into hand-picked organizations and think tanks that push its preferred environmental agenda. While it claims to support bipartisan solutions, its activities frequently align with a narrow political vision focused on aggressive decarbonization — regardless of the economic trade-offs or regional concerns. The foundation’s outsized influence distorts energy debates and policy outcomes, prioritizing ideology over balanced, inclusive decision-making.

Prior to 2020, the US Energy Foundation operated under the name Energy Foundation, which also included an entity known as Energy Foundation China. In 2019, these organizations underwent a formal separation, with Energy Foundation China retaining the original Energy Foundation's EIN number. Similar to its US counterpart, Energy Foundation China provides grants to other organizations involved in shaping energy policy outcomes in the United States. These activities have been noted for their potential alignment with the interests of the Chinese Communist Party.

When commenting on the CCP’s efforts, Caitlin Sutherland, the executive director of ethics watchdog Americans for Public Trust, told the Free Beacon, "The Energy Foundation’s direct ties to the CCP are incredibly alarming, as they’ve spent millions to push for radical climate initiatives that favor China and harm American energy production. Their dark money has been funneled to groups that want to ban gas stoves and phase out fossil fuels[1]." These concerns were shared by prominent Congressional Committee Chairs Cathy McMorris Rodgers (Energy and Commerce), Bruce Westerman (Natural Resources) and Frank Lucas (Science, Space and Technology). In early 2024, the prominent members sent a letter to Energy Foundation China President and CEO Zi Chou requesting information about their influence efforts and their relationship with former affiliate, the United States Energy Foundation.

The US Energy Foundation is also connected to Energy Action Fund, a 501c4 that serves as the lobbying and advocacy arm of the organization. Like the US Energy Foundation, the Energy Action Fund provides grants to likeminded organizations in states around the country, including Arizona, to advance their agenda.

[1] Ex-CCP Officials Funneled Millions to US Universities, Nonprofits To Promote Green Energy, Tax Forms Show