
The Biden administration is launching an aggressive clean energy initiative, seeking to reconcile political tensions with environmental goals.
At a Glance
- The Inflation Reduction Act leads to 150,000 clean energy jobs in its first year.
- Over 3.5 million clean energy jobs now surpass the number of nurses nationwide.
- Trump proposes to cancel unspent climate funding and incentives for electric cars.
- EPA regulations assume preventing 200,000 premature deaths by 2050.
Environmental Policies in Action
Biden’ s administration argues that its environmental policies could save 200,000 American lives in future decades through reduced pollution. In the year after the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was enacted, 150,000 clean energy jobs were created, contributing to a nationwide tally of 3.5 million such positions, exceeding the number of registered nurses. Investment in renewable energy continues in politically conservative regions, with Republican-led areas hosting about one million clean energy jobs. Meanwhile, clean energy job growth reached 4.5% last year, outpacing overall US employment growth.
The Biden administration is pushing hard for renewable energy development by approving substantial wind projects and investing billions in clean energy. The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management has endorsed its 10th offshore wind facility, marking progress towards Biden’s 2030 offshore wind target of 30 gigawatts. Funds from a federal green bank amounting to $20 billion are now allocated for clean energy projects. There are also plans to develop battery production capacity with a $3 billion investment, alongside a $1.5 billion loan to restart a nuclear plant.
Political Contestations and Environmental Priorities
The IRA remains a central topic of political debate. Donald Trump has pledged to revoke remaining funds intended for climate initiatives and to end support for electric vehicles. Conversely, Kamala Harris critiques Trump’s viewpoint on climate and technological competitiveness with China. Harris has been significant in passing the IRA and was a pioneering supporter of the Green New Deal.
Biden’s climate legislation seeks to curb U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2030. Should Trump’s priorities prevail, projections suggest a potential 12% emission increase by the end of the decade. Despite GOP opposition, a substantial 60% of clean energy projects are still located in Republican districts, contributing to the construction of a cleaner economy.
The Biden-Harris Administration is equipping communities with resources to lead our nation’s clean energy transition.
We’re awarding over $12 million to 35 state, local, and tribal governments to support clean energy projects and lower energy costs.https://t.co/YFHwqiQ72V
— Secretary Jennifer Granholm (@SecGranholm) August 30, 2024
Collaboration and Developmental Efforts
The Department of the Interior, led by Secretary Deb Haaland, targets large-scale clean energy projects, surpassing its goals with over 29 gigawatts of renewable energy being developed. These initiatives, especially offshore wind projects, can power over five million homes and generate numerous jobs. Collaboration with Tribes, states, and nearby communities remains essential, fostering inclusive and transparent processes. Efforts are ongoing to update Western Solar Plan regulations, streamlining permits to hasten project approvals.
An overarching goal under Biden-Harris leadership is building a sustainable energy future that simultaneously provides economic advantages and environmental improvements. The Bureau of Indian Affairs is involved in electrification programs aiding tribal communities through clean energy investment.
Sources:
Biden’s green policies will save 200,000 lives and have boosted clean energy jobs, data shows
Biden administration races to shell out billions for clean energy as election nears
Noting Election’s High Stakes, Environmental, Clean Energy Supporters Line Up for Kamala Harris
Interior’s Leadership in the Biden-Harris Administration’s Clean Energy Agenda
White House clean-energy spending boom puts Biden in the crosshairs
Biden fossil fuel boost creates political storm on his left