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EPA Announces More Than $129 million to Cuyahoga County for Community-Driven Solutions to Cut Climate Pollution

Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of a coalition led by Cuyahoga County, Ohio, to receive a $129,396,997 Climate Pollution Reduction Grant to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.  

Cuyahoga County, along with the cities of Cleveland and Painesville, will support the transition away from a coal-fired power plant in Northeast Ohio by funding the deployment of 63 megawatts of solar installations on brownfield and previous landfill sites and 10 megawatts of battery storage. They will also restore natural habitat and expand tree coverage on a brownfield near Lake Erie and create pollinator habitats at the selected solar sites.  

“President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. Thanks to his leadership, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Selected recipients have put forward ambitious plans to advance sustainable agriculture, deploy clean industrial technologies, cut emissions and energy costs in homes and commercial buildings, and provide cost- and energy-efficient heating and cooling to communities, creating economic and workforce development opportunities along the way.”  

“The Biden-Harris administration is delivering unprecedented funding and resources to help fight climate change, safeguard public health and grow the economy in Cuyahoga County,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “EPA congratulates Cuyahoga County and the cities of Cleveland and Painesville for their leadership and innovative plans to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by replacing a coal-fired power plant with a large-scale solar array and a 1000-acre public lakefront park tobuild a greener, cleaner, healthier future for all Ohioans.”    

“This is a big win for Cuyahoga County and a major investment in our future. Reducing air pollution, deploying clean energy, and restoring natural habitats makes Northeast Ohio a better place to live. I’m excited to join the EPA in announcing such a significant investment in our local community and commend Cuyahoga County leadership for securing this funding. This is one of many reasons I was proud to vote for the Inflation Reduction Act, because transitioning to clean energy requires money, and the Biden-Harris Administration is making sure available dollars are equitably distributed,” said Rep. Shontel Brown.   

"This $130 million Climate Pollution Reduction grant from the U.S. EPA will be transformative for Cuyahoga County and Northeast Ohio," said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. "With these resources, we will be able to expand our solar infrastructure, reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Thank you to the Biden-Harris administration for delivering this investment in Cuyahoga County’s future. This award underscores our commitment to climate leadership and to policies and programs that pave the way for a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future for all." 

EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The Agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.   

The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.  

Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond. When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from 5 million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years. 

EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories later this summer. 

State, Tribal, and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower income Americans, improving climate resilience, and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.  

The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.   

The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation in new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied. 

Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today, as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local, and Tribal governments across the country, will complement the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include: the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, the Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030, the Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap, the U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint, the Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature Based Solutions Roadmap, the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.  

Learn more about the selected applications 

Learn more about the CPRG program 

EPA announces nearly $200 million to cut climate pollution and advance environmental justice in Oregon

SEATTLE – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the general competition selection of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to receive a $197,181,796 Climate Pollution Reduction Grant. Oregon is among 25 selected applications to receive $4.3 billion in funding to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.



Oregon’s Climate Equity and Resilience Through Action grant will work to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from multiple sectors through programs such as a) heavy-duty and light-duty electric vehicles and charging rebates, b) incentives for building decarbonization and smart development, c) programs to reduce food waste, and d) programs to reduce methane from landfills. Together these activities align with the state’s goals of creating sustainable and transformative approaches to tackling the climate crisis.



“Every community is feeling the impacts of climate change, from heat waves and drought conditions to increased wildfire smoke and severe winter storms. We must act collaboratively to reduce carbon emissions and to address the adverse impacts on people’s health and our economic prosperity,” said EPA Regional Administrator Casey Sixkiller. “Through the Biden Administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA is partnering with states and local communities to make the largest investments ever in green buildings, clean energy transportation, and climate justice, and the Pacific Northwest continues to lead the way.”



“Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is a critical strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” said Oregon Governor Tina Kotek. “When I was Speaker of the House, I fought for ambitious GHG reduction goals. This investment is not only an affirmation of Oregon’s collective efforts to combat climate change, but a significant downpayment on our ability to meet our reduction goals with a statewide approach. I want to thank Oregon’s congressional delegation for their partnership in making this key investment happen.”



“As climate chaos intensifies, we must act boldly and quickly to transition to clean and renewable energies,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “This major federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act will give Oregon more tools in the toolbox to meet the state’s climate goals. This includes reducing harmful emissions in our transportation, construction, and other sectors that will lead to better health for our communities and less pollution in our environment.” 



“It’s as clear as Crater Lake that clean, renewable energy and smart decarbonization strategies are vital ingredients for a healthy, prosperous country,” said Senator Ron Wyden. “These shrewd federal investments will move the country forward technologically while bolstering local economies and improving environmental and human health.”



“After advocating for this funding alongside my Oregon colleagues, I am proud to announce that the State of Oregon will be receiving $197 million from the EPA to help reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions in our communities,” said Congresswoman Andrea Salinas. “Climate change poses an existential threat to our health, safety, and way of life here in Oregon – from growers who are dealing with worsening wildfires and extreme weather, to Tribal communities whose access to salmon and other traditional foods is under threat. This grant will ensure that we continue to make progress in the fight against climate change and deliver a cleaner, greener future for our children and grandchildren.”



“Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act with the recognition that we must invest to fight the climate crisis,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “I’m grateful to have helped Oregon secure this significant funding to reduce carbon pollution and help the transition to clean energy. This innovative work is important to all Oregonians and Americans, but especially meaningful for the underserved communities that have borne the greatest burden of pollution. The time to act on climate is now, and this funding will make action possible.”



“Tackling the climate crisis is a team effort, and we need bold investments that put our communities first,” said Representative Val Hoyle. “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, $197 million is headed to Oregon to help us reach our carbon emissions targets, bringing us a step closer to cleaner air and a healthier climate.” 



EPA made its selections through a rigorous grant competition, reviewing nearly 300 applications to ensure the competition was fair and impartial. Applications were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding. 



The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples and blueprints that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.



These selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond. Together, these grants are estimated to reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 148 million metric tons by 2030 and by 971 million metric tons by 2050, based on estimates provided by the selected applicants.



EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories in the coming weeks.



The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation by supporting new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.



Learn more about the selected applications.

 

Learn more about the CPRG program.

EPA Announces Nearly $200 Million  to Minnesota for Community-Driven Solutions to Cut Climate Pollution  

Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of the State of Minnesota to receive a $199,999,999 Climate Pollution Reduction Grant to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.   

Minnesota will use its Climate Pollution Reduction Grant to support the Minnesota Climate-Smart Food Systems project, led by Minnesota Pollution Control Agency. The project will focus on food system decarbonization to improve the health and well-being of Minnesotans. The project will support peatland restoration, climate-friendly agriculture, energy efficiency, vehicle and equipment electrification, and advanced clean fuels, climate friendly refrigerants and food waste prevention.  

“President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. Thanks to his leadership, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Selected recipients have put forward ambitious plans to advance sustainable agriculture, deploy clean industrial technologies, cut emissions and energy costs in homes and commercial buildings, and provide cost- and energy-efficient heating and cooling to communities, creating economic and workforce development opportunities along the way.” 

“The Biden-Harris administration is delivering unprecedented funding and resources to help Minnesota fight climate change, safeguard public health and grow its economy,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “EPA congratulates Gov. Walz for his leadership and innovative plans to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by decarbonizing the state’s food system across agricultural, industrial and waste sectors, to building a greener, cleaner, healthier future for all Minnesotans.”   

“Minnesota is a national leader in developing sustainable solutions to address climate change and ensure a safe and healthy future for our kids,” said Governor Tim Walz. “This funding will help us continue this work and implement a wide range of improvements to our food system: from climate-smart farming practices to scaling up food waste prevention programs. The Inflation Reduction Act is helping Minnesota make great strides on climate change.”  

"I am thrilled to that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency has been selected as one of twenty-five grantees through EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program,” said Rep. Betty McCollum. “The $4.3 billion in new investments from the Biden-Harris Administration will be spread across the country, building national momentum towards achieving our climate resilience goals. In Minnesota, the Climate-Smart Food Systems project will improve the health and wellbeing of Minnesotans by focusing on food system decarbonization." 

EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The Agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.   

The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.  

Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond. When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from 5 million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years. 

EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories later this summer. 

State, Tribal, and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower income Americans, improving climate resilience, and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.  

The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.   

The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation in new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied. 

Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today, as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local, and Tribal governments across the country, will complement the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include: the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, the Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030, the Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap, the U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint, the Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature Based Solutions Roadmap, the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.  

Learn more about the selected applications 

Learn more about the CPRG program 

EPA Announces $307M for Community-Driven Solutions to Cut Climate Pollution Across Nebraska

LENEXA, KAN. (JULY 22, 2024) – Today, as part of the Biden-Harris administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the general competition selection of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) to receive a $307 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant to implement community-driven solutions to tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.

NDEE will fund measures to increase the adoption of climate-smart and precision agriculture and reduce agricultural waste from livestock. The selected application will also fund projects to improve energy efficiency in commercial and industrial facilities and low-income households, as well as deploy solar and electrify irrigation wells.

“President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. Thanks to his leadership, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Selected recipients have put forward ambitious plans to advance sustainable agriculture, deploy clean industrial technologies, cut emissions and energy costs in homes and commercial buildings, and provide cost- and energy-efficient heating and cooling to communities, creating economic and workforce development opportunities along the way.”

Through this grant, the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy will deliver innovative environmental solutions that work for rural and urban Nebraskans across the Cornhusker State,” said EPA Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister. “We are proud of the effort undertaken by the NDEE to secure this grant and share their goal of partnering with agriculture, industry, and neighborhoods to find common sense solutions to environmental issues.”

“We are excited about the opportunities these funds provide for Nebraska,” said NDEE Interim Director Thad Fineran. “With this grant, Nebraska will continue to build on innovative practices. Many are already implementing to grow our economy while protecting our environment and energy resources.”

“We are grateful to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy for their diligent efforts in securing these vital funds and to the Biden-Harris administration and EPA for making them available,” said Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird. “This significant federal investment will bolster the efforts of Lincoln and other local governments across our state as we work with our residents and businesses to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, spur new clean energy jobs, and ensure a more sustainable future for all.”

EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The Agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.

The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples and blueprints that other states, local governments, tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.

Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, tribes, and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative greenhouse gas reductions by 2030 and beyond. When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from 5 million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years.

EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program for tribes, tribal consortia, and territories in the coming weeks.

State, tribal, and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits, such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower-income Americans, improving climate resilience, and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure that 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.

The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation by supporting new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today – as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local, and tribal governments across the country – will complement the Biden-Harris administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include:

U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization
Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030
Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap
U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint
Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature-Based Solutions Roadmap
U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan
National Climate Resilience Framework ... and more!
# # #

Learn more about the selected applications and the CPRG program

Learn more about EPA Region 7

View all Region 7 news releases

Connect with EPA Region 7 on Facebook and Instagram

Follow us on X: @EPARegion7

EPA Announces More Than $129 million to Michigan for Community-Driven Solutions to Cut Climate Pollution

Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the State of Michigan is set to receive a $129,104,391 Climate Pollution Reduction Grant to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.  

Michigan will use its Climate Pollution Reduction Grant for a project led by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy to provide incentives and technical assistance to local and Tribal governments to accelerate the siting, zoning, and permitting of renewable energy. This will help spur the adoption of renewable energy at the scale and pace needed to reach Michigan's goal of 60 percent renewable energy by 2030. 

“President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. Thanks to his leadership, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Selected recipients have put forward ambitious plans to advance sustainable agriculture, deploy clean industrial technologies, cut emissions and energy costs in homes and commercial buildings, and provide cost- and energy-efficient heating and cooling to communities, creating economic and workforce development opportunities along the way.” 

“The Biden-Harris administration is delivering unprecedented funding and resources to help Michigan fight climate change, safeguard public health and grow its economy,” said EPA Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore. “EPA congratulates Gov. Whitmer for her leadership and innovative plans to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions by accelerating the development of renewable energy projects in communities across the State of Michigan to build a greener, cleaner, healthier future for all Michigan residents.”    

“Michigan is committed to leading the future of clean energy so we can drive down utility costs for families, create good-paying jobs, and grow our advanced manufacturing economy,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Thanks to our congressional delegation and the Biden-Harris administration’s investment in Michigan, we are ready to launch the Renewables Ready Communities Program to meet our renewable energy and MI Healthy Climate Plan goals. Together, we can install more solar panels and wind turbines using well-paid American workers. We can make clean, reliable energy right here in America while lowering costs and keeping our natural resources safe for future generations. Together, let’s keep leading the future of clean energy manufacturing and move towards our goal of 100% clean energy by 2040. Let’s get it done.” 

“If we want to address the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition, we must fund critical investments that will make a difference in our communities. That’s what we are doing with this investment,” said Rep. Debbie Dingell. “With this funding, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy will use community driven solutions to further tackle the climate crisis by accelerating renewable energy projects across our state. I am grateful for the Biden-Harris Administration’s leadership and look forward to our continued work towards our clean energy goals and the future, both here in Michigan and beyond.” 

“I’m proud to have helped pass new laws to invest in our clean energy future and create good-paying, union jobs in mid-Michigan. This new funding will ensure that our communities have the resources they need to protect the environment and bring clean energy manufacturing jobs back to Michigan,” said Rep. Dan Kildee. 

“My residents are suffering the effects of the climate crisis, and we must act with urgency to invest in climate resilience and combat the extreme heat and flooding in Southeast Michigan. Our district also has some of the highest asthma rates in the nation, and reducing pollution and improving our air quality is critical. I am grateful that the EPA is making this important investment to advance environmental justice here in Michigan,” said Rep. Rashida Tlaib. 

“Investments like this one not only help us address climate change — they also create jobs for our workers, drive economic growth and strengthen our energy security. This grant is a huge deal for our state and will keep Michigan on track to reach our renewable energy goals,” said Rep. Elissa Slotkin. 

“Lake Michigan is our crown jewel — and west Michiganders are serious about protecting it. This Climate Pollution Reduction Grant totaling over $129 million will bring us closer to a future unburdened by the detrimental impacts of climate change. We are thrilled the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is investing in preserving our Great Lake for generations to come,” said Rep. Hillary Scholten. 

“I am pleased to see that Michigan is getting the recognition, protection, and investment we deserve to fight pollution and climate change. This money will go a long way in making sure that historically underserved communities, such as Southwest Detroit in my district, receive the help they deserve after decades of environmental injustice. As we continue confronting pollution and climate change, measures like this will make all the difference as we build a better future for our children,” said Rep. Shri Thanedar.  

EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The Agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.   

The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.  

Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond. When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from 5 million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years. 

EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories later this summer. 

State, Tribal, and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower income Americans, improving climate resilience, and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.  

The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.   

The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation in new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied. 

Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today, as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local, and Tribal governments across the country, will complement the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include: the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, the Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030, the Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap, the U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint, the Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature Based Solutions Roadmap, the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.  

Learn more about the selected applications 

Learn more about the CPRG program 

Learn more about how greenhouse gas reduction can occur in different sectors 

Biden-Harris Administration announces $328.7M for community-driven solutions to cut climate pollution across Colorado

DENVER – Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the general competition selections of the Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) to receive $199,705,797 and the Colorado Energy Office (CEO) to receive $129,008,738 in Climate Pollution Reduction grants to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.

The DRCOG Climate Pollution Reduction Grant project is a zero-emission building initiative grant that will fund measures to reduce GHG emissions from residential and commercial building sectors and increase energy and resource efficiency within the Denver Metropolitan Area. The selected application will help achieve a regionwide goal of net-zero building-sector emissions by 2050.

CEO’s proposed project, the Colorado Decarbonization Accelerator, will implement projects in multiple sectors including measures to reduce methane emissions from landfills, coal mines and natural seepage. The selected application will also support decarbonization of large commercial buildings and accelerate local greenhouse gas reduction policies and projects.

“Our guiding mission is ensuring all people in Colorado have clean air to breathe, clean water to drink and the opportunity to live healthy lives," said EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker. "These grants — unprecedented in their funding — bring us and Coloradans closer to achieving these goals. With nearly $330 million coming to Colorado, pollution that has overwhelmed communities across the state can be addressed through the selectees’ thoughtful, targeted projects. The Colorado Energy Office will be aiming to reduce emissions from landfills and coal mines, while the Denver Regional Council of Governments will be focused on decarbonizing local homes and commercial buildings across the Denver Metropolitan area—collectively benefitting millions of Coloradans across the state and economic sectors.”

“The Inflation Reduction Act made the largest investment to confront climate change in history, and Colorado is uniquely positioned to benefit from it and lead the transition to a clean energy economy,” said Senator Michael Bennet. “With nearly $329 million for Colorado, these Climate Pollution Reduction Grants will reduce greenhouse gas pollution by helping decarbonize homes and businesses, and addressing methane pollution from landfills, mines and other sources. I’m pleased the EPA is working with local leaders to ensure these investments reach every corner of our state."

“Colorado is already tackling climate change head-on, but to reach our climate goals, we’ll need to continue investing in cleaner technologies and decarbonization efforts,” said Senator John Hickenlooper. “We passed the historic Inflation Reduction Act to do just that. And now it’s delivering millions to Colorado to help businesses and local governments measure — and cut — their carbon emissions!”

“As stewards of our environment, we have a responsibility to ensure that the next generation inherits cleaner air and water than we enjoy today,” said Representative Yadira Caraveo. “As a physician, I’ve witnessed firsthand the harmful effects of polluted air and contaminated water on our children’s health. That’s why I advocated to secure this multimillion-dollar federal grant — because Coloradans deserve better. By focusing on pollution reduction with this generational investment from the EPA, we empower our communities to prioritize the health and safety of everyday Coloradans.”

“This substantial funding is a major advancement in the bold action we must take to combat the climate crisis effectively,” said Representative Diana DeGette. “The Inflation Reduction Act includes some of the most significant climate action in our history, and I am proud to have voted for this landmark law. With this funding, Denver can take a significant step towards reducing pollution, combating climate change and securing a healthier environment for future generations."

“Colorado knows how critical it is that we take immediate action to address the climate crisis head on,” said Representative Brittany Pettersen. “This funding from the Inflation Reduction Act is a huge step forward in our work to cut climate pollution and greenhouse gas emissions and improve our air quality and public health, all while investing in our local workforce and strengthening our economy. I’ll keep working to ensure our communities have the resources they need to build a healthier, sustainable Colorado.”

“This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of not just the entire DRCOG team, but the unwavering support from our member government partners, as well as over 90 program supporters across industry, labor, government and the broader community,” said Jeff Baker, Arapahoe County Commissioner and Chair of the DRCOG Board. “The region’s Metro Vision Plan calls for healthy, inclusive and livable communities, and this federal grant will enable us to take bold, visionary steps to reduce climate pollution and protect the health and well-being of our residents. We are grateful for the support and look forward to working with our partners to achieve these ambitious goals.”

“We are proud of all the work we have done to position ourselves as a national leader in addressing climate change through economy-wide emissions reductions,” said Colorado Energy Office Executive Director Will Toor. “Local and Tribal government actions are crucial to this effort, and this funding will ensure that they can adopt and implement key policies to help us achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. This money will also help large building owners reduce their energy usage and associated emissions. We are grateful to the EPA for this award and for recognizing the great work happening across the state to protect the environment, improve air quality and save Coloradans money.”

“Cutting emissions of this powerful greenhouse gas is absolutely vital to achieving our overall climate goals,” said CDPHE Executive Director Jill Hunsaker Ryan. “These projects represent an extraordinary investment in Colorado’s future, and I am grateful to the EPA for the funding. These projects will improve our understanding of methane emissions, enhance the accuracy and reliability of our data and ultimately result in hundreds of thousands of tons of emissions reductions annually.”

EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding. 

The 25 selected applications, from states, a Tribe, local governments and coalitions of these entities, will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes and businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.

Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative greenhouse gas reductions by 2030 and beyond. When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from five million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years.

EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia and territories later this summer.

State, Tribal and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower income Americans, improving climate resilience and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. 

The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation in new and growing industries and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today, as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local and Tribal governments across the country, will complement the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include: the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, the Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030, the Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap, the U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint, the Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature Based Solutions Roadmap, the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, the National Climate Resilience Framework and more.

Learn more about the selected applications.

Learn more about the CPRG program.

La Administración Biden-Harris anuncia $4.3 mil millones en subvenciones para soluciones impulsadas por la comunidad para reducir la contaminación climática en Estados Unidos

Cuando las estimaciones provistas por todos los solicitantes seleccionados son combinados, los proyectos propuestos reducirían la contaminación por gases de efecto invernadero hasta en 971 millones de toneladas métricas de dióxido de carbono equivalente para 2050, aproximadamente las emisiones del uso promedio de energía de 5 millones de hogares cada año durante más de 25 años

WASHINGTON – Hoy, 22 de julio, como parte del programa Invertir en Estados Unidos de la Administración Biden-Harris, la Agencia de Protección Ambiental de EE. UU. (EPA, por sus siglas en inglés) anunció los beneficiarios seleccionados de más de $4.3 mil millones en subvenciones para la reducción de la contaminación climática a fin de implementar soluciones impulsadas por la comunidad que aborden la crisis climática, reduzcan la contaminación del aire, promuevan la justicia ambiental y aceleren la transición a la energía limpia de Estados Unidos. Las 25 solicitudes seleccionadas financiarán proyectos en 30 estados, incluida una tribu, que tienen como objetivo reducir la contaminación por gases de efecto invernadero en seis sectores: transporte, energía eléctrica, inmuebles comerciales y residenciales, industria, agricultura/tierras naturales y de trabajo, y gestión de residuos y materiales. Además de las solicitudes seleccionadas de hoy para proyectos específicos, este programa, el primero de su tipo, garantizado por la Ley de Reducción de la Inflación del presidente Biden, también está ayudando a 45 estados y docenas de áreas metropolitanas, tribus y territorios a desarrollar Planes de Acción Climática y es el esfuerzo más grande para estimular el desarrollo de objetivos locales concretos de acción climática en todo el país. 

Las subvenciones financiarán proyectos que apoyen la implementación de tecnologías y programas para reducir los gases de efecto invernadero y otros contaminantes dañinos en todo el país y construir la infraestructura, vivienda, industria y economía competitiva necesarias para un futuro de energía limpia. Estas subvenciones también ayudarán a las empresas a capitalizar nuevas oportunidades, estimular el crecimiento económico y la creación de empleos en industrias nuevas y en crecimiento, y apoyar el desarrollo de programas de capacitación para preparar a los trabajadores. 

En conjunto, estos proyectos seleccionados implementarán ambiciosas medidas de reducción de la contaminación climática diseñadas por los estados, las tribus y los gobiernos locales que lograrán reducciones acumulativas considerables de GEI para 2030 y más allá. Al combinar las estimaciones proporcionadas por todos los solicitantes seleccionados, los proyectos propuestos reducirían la contaminación por gases de efecto invernadero hasta en 971 millones de toneladas métricas de dióxido de carbono equivalente para 2050, aproximadamente las emisiones del uso promedio de energía de 5 millones de hogares cada año durante más de 25 años. 

La EPA espera anunciar hasta $300 millones adicionales en selecciones según el programa de Subvenciones para la Reducción de la Contaminación Climática para Tribus, Consorcios Tribales y territorios a finales de este verano. 

El administrador de la EPA, Michael S. Regan, anunciará las selecciones hoy en Pittsburgh, Pensilvania, con el gobernador Josh Shapiro como parte de la quinta gira de Invertir en Estados Unidos de la Administración Biden-Harris. El Departamento de Protección Ambiental de Pensilvania ha sido seleccionado para recibir una subvención de más de $396 millones para su proyecto RISE PA, que reducirá las emisiones industriales de GEI en el sector industrial a través de un programa de subvenciones competitivo e incentivos para proyectos de descarbonización a pequeña, mediana y gran escala en todo el estado. Los altos directivos de la EPA también se unirán al senador Alex Padilla (CA) y a los funcionarios para anunciar que el Distrito de Gestión de la Calidad del Aire de la Costa Sur ha sido seleccionado para recibir casi $500 millones destinados a la descarbonización de transportes y fletes a través de incentivos para equipos de carga eléctrica y vehículos de carga de cero emisiones. 

“El presidente Biden cree en el poder de las soluciones impulsadas por la comunidad para luchar contra el cambio climático, proteger la salud pública y desarrollar nuestra economía. Gracias a su liderazgo, el programa de Subvenciones para la Reducción de la Contaminación Climática entregará recursos sin precedentes a los estados, gobiernos locales y tribus para financiar las soluciones que funcionan mejor en sus comunidades”, señaló el administrador de la EPA, Michael S. Regan. “Los beneficiarios seleccionados han presentado planes ambiciosos para promover la agricultura sostenible, implementar tecnologías industriales limpias, reducir las emisiones y los costos de energía en hogares e inmuebles comerciales, y proporcionar calefacción y refrigeración eficientes en términos de costo y energía a las comunidades, creando al mismo tiempo oportunidades de desarrollo económico y laboral.” 

“Durante mi mandato se están tomando medidas reales para abordar el cambio climático mientras continúa creando empleos en el sector de la energía y haciendo crecer la economía, y hoy, me enorgullece anunciar que, gracias a nuestra asociación con la Administración Biden, Pensilvania ha recibido $396 millones en fondos federales para iniciar una nueva iniciativa llamada RISE PA”, comentó el gobernador Josh Shapiro. “Esta es una de las subvenciones federales más grandes que Pensilvania haya recibido, y a través de RISE PA, ofreceremos subvenciones para las empresas que trabajan para hacer sus operaciones más eficientes. Esta inversión nos ayudará a reducir la contaminación tóxica del aire, crear miles de empleos, invertir en nuestro sector energético y continuar el legado de liderazgo energético de Pensilvania.” 

“Las Subvenciones para la Reducción de la Contaminación Climática del presidente Biden hacen posible que los gobiernos locales puedan tomar las riendas para desarrollar soluciones climáticas que funcionen para sus comunidades”, explicó John Podesta, asesor principal del presidente para la Política Climática Internacional. “Estas subvenciones ayudarán a los gobiernos estatales y locales a mejorar la calidad del aire y la salud de sus comunidades, acelerando a la vez el progreso de Estados Unidos hacia nuestros objetivos climáticos.” 

“Bajo el liderazgo del presidente Biden, esta Administración ha movilizado todas las herramientas y recursos para reducir la contaminación climática, promover la justicia ambiental y generar crecimiento económico en las comunidades de todos los Estados Unidos, y las inversiones transformadoras de hoy empoderarán aún más a los gobernadores y alcaldes para aprovechar estas oportunidades”, indicó el asesor nacional de clima de la Casa Blanca, Ali Zaidi. “Como parte de las históricas leyes climáticas del presidente Biden, el anuncio de financiamiento de hoy para proyectos liderados localmente apoyará las prioridades de la comunidad al tiempo que animará una carrera hacia la cima en empleos climáticos. Estos premios impulsarán el progreso climático de Estados Unidos en todos los sectores, desde alcanzar el 100% de electricidad limpia hasta reducir los supercontaminantes como el metano y aprovechar el poder de la naturaleza en nuestras granjas y bosques en la lucha contra el cambio climático. Esta es una gran cosa.” 

La EPA hizo sus selecciones a través de un riguroso concurso de subvenciones que fue diseñado para ser justo e imparcial. La Agencia revisó casi 300 solicitudes presentadas por entidades de todo el país y solicitó un total de casi $33 mil millones en fondos. 

Las 25 solicitudes seleccionadas, de estados, una tribu, gobiernos locales y coaliciones de estas entidades, recibirán fondos federales para implementar soluciones locales y regionales. Muchos de estos proyectos pueden ampliarse y proporcionar ejemplos que otros estados, gobiernos locales, tribus e incluso empresas pueden replicar en su trabajo para abordar la crisis climática. Por ejemplo: 

El Proyecto de Resiliencia Climática de los Bosques, la Comunidad y los Paisajes Laborables de Montana financiará medidas que mejoren la gestión forestal y amplíen los bosques urbanos y comunitarios. La solicitud seleccionada también ayudará con los esfuerzos para mitigar los incendios forestales y los incendios de vetas de carbón y apoyará las iniciativas locales para mejorar la salud del suelo y reducir la contaminación de la agricultura. 
El Departamento de Medioambiente y Energía de Nebraska financiará medidas para aumentar la adopción de la agricultura climáticamente inteligente y de precisión y reducir los residuos agrícolas del ganado. La solicitud seleccionada también financiará proyectos para mejorar la eficiencia energética en instalaciones comerciales e industriales y hogares de bajos ingresos, así como para desplegar paneles solares y electrificar pozos de riego. 
La Coalición del Corredor Limpio con su propuesta para el proyecto de infraestructura ZE-MHDV a lo largo del corredor I-95 implementará infraestructura de carga de vehículos eléctricos para vehículos comerciales de cero emisiones, medianos y pesados en el corredor de carga de la Interestatal-95. Se trata de una empresa conjunta entre el Departamento de Protección Ambiental de Nueva Jersey, el Departamento de Energía y Protección Ambiental de Connecticut, el Departamento de Transporte de Delaware y los Departamentos de Medioambiente y Transporte de Maryland. La solicitud seleccionada proporcionará asistencia técnica para el desarrollo de la fuerza laboral y la planificación de corredores en Nueva Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware y Maryland. 
La Aceleración de Sitios, Zonificación y Permisos del 60% de Energía Renovable en Michigan a través de su subvención, proporcionará incentivos y asistencia técnica a los gobiernos locales y tribales para acelerar los sitios, la zonificación y los permisos de energía renovable. La solicitud seleccionada ayudará a estimular la adopción de energía renovable a la escala y al ritmo necesarios para alcanzar el objetivo de Michigan de un 60 por ciento de energía renovable para 2030. 
La Coalición Atlántica para la Conservación es un enfoque regional centrado en soluciones climáticas naturales para reducir las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero. La solicitud seleccionada financiará esfuerzos en Carolina del Norte, Carolina del Sur, Maryland y Virginia para aprovechar el poder de secuestro de carbono de las tierras naturales y laborables, incluidos los humedales costeros, las turberas, los bosques y la silvicultura urbana. La Coalición de Conservación del Atlántico es una asociación entre el Departamento de Recursos Naturales y Culturales de Carolina del Norte, la Oficina de Resiliencia de Carolina del Sur, el Departamento de Medioambiente de Maryland y el Departamento de Recursos de Vida Silvestre de Virginia. 
La Aceleración del Ahorro de Energía Limpia en las Comunidades Costeras de Alaska a través de su subvención, proporcionará servicios de asesoramiento e incentivos para reemplazar los sistemas residenciales de combustión de petróleo con bombas de calor energéticamente eficientes en 50 comunidades de Alaska. 
La acción estatal, tribal y local es vital para cumplir con el compromiso del presidente de reducir la contaminación climática en más del 50% para 2030 y lograr cero emisiones netas a más tardar en 2050. Se espera que las medidas innovadoras contenidas en las solicitudes seleccionadas, desarrolladas con aportes de las comunidades locales, logren beneficios sustanciales para la salud pública, como reducir la exposición al calor extremo, mejorar la calidad del aire, reducir la carga energética para los estadounidenses de bajos ingresos, mejorar la resiliencia climática y brindar oportunidades de desarrollo económico y laboral, particularmente en comunidades de bajos ingresos y desventajadas. 

Las Subvenciones para la Reducción de la Contaminación Climática promueven Iniciativa Justice40 histórica del presidente Biden, que tiene como objetivo garantizar que el 40% de los beneficios generales de ciertas inversiones climáticas, de energía limpia y otras inversiones federales fluyan a las comunidades desventajadas que se ven marginadas por la falta de inversión y sobrecargadas por la contaminación.  La EPA espera otorgar los fondos a finales de este año, una vez que se cumplan todos los requisitos legales y administrativos. 

Muchos de los proyectos propuestos contenidos en las solicitudes seleccionadas anunciadas hoy, así como los $250 millones en fondos de subvenciones de planificación que la EPA ofrece gracias al programa CPRG para el desarrollo de Planes de Acción Climática por parte de los gobiernos estatales, locales y tribales de todo el país, complementarán las acciones federales históricas de la Administración Biden-Harris y las estrategias climáticas nacionales en todos los sectores. Entre ellas se encuentran: el Plan Nacional de los EE. UU. para la Descarbonización del Transporte, los esfuerzos de la Administración para lograr la electricidad 100% limpia para 2035 y hacer que la construcción con cero emisiones sea una práctica común para 2030, la Hoja de Ruta para la Descarbonización Industrial, el Plan de Descarbonización de Inmuebles de los EE. UU. , la labor en agricultura esfuerzos por la agricultura climáticamente inteligente y la Hoja de Ruta de Soluciones Basadas en la Naturaleza, el Plan de Acción para la Reducción de Emisiones de Metano en los EE. UU., el Marco Nacional de Resiliencia Climática, y más. 

Conozca más sobre las solicitudes seleccionadas (en inglés)

Más información sobre el programa de CPRG (en inglés)

Maryland to receive nearly $130 million for community-driven solutions to cut climate pollution across the Mid-Atlantic Region

Contact Information

EPA R3 Press Office: R3Press@epa.gov

PHILADELPHIA (July 22, 2024) – Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Maryland Department of the Environment and Maryland Department of Transportation as partners in coalitions that will receive a total of more than $670 million in Climate Pollution Reduction Grants to implement community-driven solutions that tackle the climate crisis, reduce air pollution, advance environmental justice, and accelerate America’s clean energy transition.

The Clean Corridor Coalition project will deploy electric vehicle charging infrastructure for commercial zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles on the Interstate-95 freight corridor as a joint venture among the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Delaware Department of Transportation, and Maryland Departments of the Environment and Transportation, as well as provide technical assistance for workforce development and corridor planning across New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware, and Maryland.

The Atlantic Conservation Coalition is a regional approach focused on natural climate solutions to reduce GHG emissions. The project will fund efforts across North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, and Virginia to leverage the carbon sequestration power of natural and working lands, including coastal wetlands, peatlands, forests, and urban forestry. The Atlantic Conservation Coalition is a partnership among the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, South Carolina Office of Resilience, Maryland Department of the Environment, and Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. 

“President Biden believes in the power of community-driven solutions to fight climate change, protect public health, and grow our economy. Thanks to his leadership, the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program will deliver unprecedented resources to states, local governments, and Tribes to fund the solutions that work best in their communities,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Selected recipients have put forward ambitious plans to advance sustainable agriculture, deploy clean industrial technologies, cut emissions and energy costs in homes and commercial buildings, and provide cost- and energy-efficient heating and cooling to communities, creating economic and workforce development opportunities along the way.”

"Investments such as this are paramount to ensuring communities across the region who are impacted the most have access to reduced climate and air pollution," said EPA Regional Administrator Adam Ortiz. “We need our partners to help us in tackling climate challenges. The work of these organizations will allow them to take the steps to ensure better quality air for future generations.”

“The Inflation Reduction Act is the single biggest investment we’ve made in fighting the climate crisis – and it is powering key projects like these that bring together neighboring states to tackle pollution, restore landscapes that store carbon, and put cleaner vehicles on our roads. As these initiatives show: in fighting the climate crisis we’re not just working to protect our environment – we’re also creating jobs and building a better, healthier future for our communities,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“The impact of Maryland’s transition to clean energy – from electric vehicles to investments in renewable energy – extends beyond our state’s borders. This funding will help accelerate our effort to protect our environment, reduce our carbon emissions and expand these efforts along I-95 corridor,” said Senator Cardin. “In partnering with our neighboring states and with federal investment, we can create a more sustainable region.”

EPA made its selections through a rigorous grants competition that was designed to be fair and impartial. The Agency reviewed nearly 300 applications that were submitted by entities from across the country and requested a total of nearly $33 billion in funding.  

The 25 selected applications – from states, a Tribe, local governments, and coalitions of these entities – will receive federal funding to implement local and regional solutions. Many of these projects can be expanded and provide examples that other states, local governments, Tribes, and even businesses can replicate in their work to tackle the climate crisis.

Together, these selected projects will implement ambitious climate pollution reduction measures designed by states, Tribes and local governments that will achieve significant cumulative GHG reductions by 2030 and beyond. When estimates provided by all selected applicants are combined, the proposed projects would reduce greenhouse gas pollution by as much as 971 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent by 2050, roughly the emissions from 5 million average homes’ energy use each year for over 25 years.

EPA expects to announce up to an additional $300 million in selections under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program for Tribes, Tribal consortia, and territories later this summer.

State, Tribal, and local action is vital to deliver on the President’s commitment to reduce climate pollution by over 50% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions no later than 2050. The innovative measures contained in the selected applications, developed with input from local communities, are expected to achieve substantial public health benefits such as reducing exposure to extreme heat, improving air quality, reducing energy burden for lower income Americans, improving climate resilience, and providing workforce and economic development opportunities, particularly in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

The Climate Pollution Reduction Grants advance President Biden’s historic Justice40 Initiative, which aims to ensure 40% of the overall benefits of certain climate, clean energy, and other federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.  

The grants will fund projects supporting the deployment of technologies and programs to reduce greenhouse gases and other harmful pollution across the country and build the infrastructure, housing, industry, and competitive economy needed for a clean energy future. These grants will also help businesses capitalize on new opportunities, spur economic growth and job creation in new and growing industries, and support development of training programs to prepare workers. EPA expects to award the funds later this year, once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied.

Many of the proposed projects contained in the selected applications announced today, as well as the $250 million in planning grant funding that EPA is providing under the CPRG program for development of Climate Action Plans by state, local, and Tribal governments across the country, will complement the Biden-Harris Administration’s historic federal actions and national climate strategies across sectors. Those include: the U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Decarbonization, the Administration’s efforts to achieve 100% clean electricity by 2035 and make zero emissions construction common practice by 2030, the Industrial Decarbonization Roadmap, the U.S. Buildings Decarbonization Blueprint, the Administration’s climate-smart agriculture efforts and Nature Based Solutions Roadmap, the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan, the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.

Learn more about the selected applications

Learn more about the CPRG program

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