The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced that it has awarded contracts to purchase approximately one million barrels of crude oil to begin replenishing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR). 

Deliveries are scheduled between December 1, 2025, and January 31, 2026, to the Bryan Mound site in Texas. The contracts follow a Request for Proposals (RFP) issued on October 21, 2025. 

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the awards mark a “step in the important process of refilling this national security asset.” 

Why It Matters

The SPR serves as the U.S. government’s emergency crude‑oil stockpile, intended to buffer supply disruptions. With the reserve currently holding just over 400 million barrels, against a capacity of approximately 700 million‑plus barrels, the one‑million‑barrel purchase represents a modest beginning. 

According to industry analysis, the entire refill effort may cost $20 billion or more and take several years to complete. 

Supporters’ View

Proponents view the move as strengthening energy security and improving federal coordination. The DOE said it selected winning bids after receiving 18 offers from six companies. 

“While this process won’t be complete overnight, these actions are an important step in strengthening our energy security,” Secretary Wright said. 

Critics’ Concerns

However, some energy analysts argue that the scale of the purchase is too small to make an immediate impact. As one commodity‑insights firm noted, even at 4 million barrels per month, full refill could stretch into 2031. 

Others raise broader questions about cost and timing. With years and billions of dollars potentially required to return the SPR to full strength, critics say strategic clarity and budget planning will be essential.

The DOE has not yet outlined the full schedule or volume targets beyond the initial one‑million‑barrel contract. With deliveries set to begin in December, how aggressively the refill program proceeds will depend on market conditions, budget allocations, and infrastructure readiness.

“The contracted oil is scheduled for delivery… between December 2025 and January 2026 at the Bryan Mound site,” DOE said. 

As the effort unfolds, observers will watch not just the volumes secured but the price paid, logistics of transport and storage, and whether larger allocations will follow.