South Carolina to benefit from $429,977,255 Biden-Harris Administration investment for community-driven solutions to cut climate pollution
COLUMBIA, S.C. (July 23, 2024) - As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced that the South Carolina Central Midlands Council of Governments has been selected to receive a $8,739,181 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. In addition, a coalition application led by the Atlantic Conservation Commission, of which the South Carolina Office of Resilience is a member, has been selected to receive $421,238,074 for projects that would protect and restore coastal, peatland and forest lands in South Carolina and the adjoining states of North Carolina, Virginia, and Maryland.
The Central Midlands Council of Governments’ proposed project will create a Smart Surfaces + Solar Fund that will provide matching funding for local government projects to install solar power at public buildings and wastewater treatment plants, as well as to promote green infrastructure, urban forestry, and cool pavement pilot projects to reduce urban heat island effects in the region.
“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 Southeastern United States are being particularly impacted by the effects of climate change, and the projects of the selectees in our region represent significant opportunities to address these impacts at the local and regional level,” said acting EPA Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “Increasing the availability of renewable energy sources like solar, reducing the effects of urban heat island effects on our cities, and restoring and maintaining coastal and forest resources will help fight the effects of climate change while boosting the local economies and promoting job growth in our 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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The Central Midlands Council of Governments’ proposed project will create a Smart Surfaces + Solar Fund that will provide matching funding for local government projects to install solar power at public buildings and wastewater treatment plants, as well as to promote green infrastructure, urban forestry, and cool pavement pilot projects to reduce urban heat island effects in the region.
“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 Southeastern United States are being particularly impacted by the effects of climate change, and the projects of the selectees in our region represent significant opportunities to address these impacts at the local and regional level,” said acting EPA Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle. “Increasing the availability of renewable energy sources like solar, reducing the effects of urban heat island effects on our cities, and restoring and maintaining coastal and forest resources will help fight the effects of climate change while boosting the local economies and promoting job growth in our 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
###
CBP Field Ops to Host Annual Trade Day Event in Detroit
DETROIT – U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) Office of Field Operations will host the 13th Annual Trade Day at Huntington Place downtown, August 7
The free event is open to the public and will provide attendees with an opportunity to…
The free event is open to the public and will provide attendees with an opportunity to…
Make the Honor Roll in Food Safety and Allergen Awareness
WASHINGTON, July 22, 2024 – Parents and caregivers will soon begin the familiar routine of preparing and packing school lunches for their children. Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in safeguarding their children’s health by ensuring these lunches are safe from foodborne illness and allergens for those with food allergies. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Food Safety and Inspection Service encourages you to follow these food safety tips and be allergen aware for a wholesome, worry-free return to the classroom.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces $328.7 million 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
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
EPA and New Jersey Break Ground on Project to Secure Clean Drinking Water for Irvington, NJ
NEW YORK - Today, in a significant investment to improve water infrastructure in New Jersey, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia, Shawn LaTourette, Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and other dignitaries’ broke ground for a major upgrade to the drinking water system serving the Township of Irvington, NJ. The $48 million upgrade, funded by the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will include replacing approximately 5,400 lead service lines within the Township’s water service area of the Passaic Water System over the next three to five years.
EPA has awarded total of $254 million to New Jersey in the first three years of the five-year Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Program Capitalization Grant Program. These funds will support projects under a state-wide ten-year implementation plan, with a primary focus on disadvantaged communities.
“This project is a perfect example of the historic federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law providing vital funds to New Jersey to ensure that our communities, and especially our children, have safe and lead free drinking water,” said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “EPA is happy to partner with NJ as we prioritize getting the lead out. There is no safe level of lead exposure, and we know that the primary source of harmful exposure in drinking water is through lead pipes.”
“Safe and reliable water infrastructure is critical to the vitality of our communities,” NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette said. “This record-setting, billion-dollar investment in our water infrastructure throughout the state demonstrates the high level of commitment that our local governments and water systems are making to protect public health and the environment. It also underscores the proud and productive partnership between the Murphy Administration and the Biden Administration to enhance the quality of life and create jobs through infrastructure investments.”
President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests a historic $15 billion to identify and replace lead service lines. The law mandates that 49% of funds provided through the DWSRF General Supplemental Funding and DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding must be provided as grants and forgivable loans to disadvantaged communities, a crucial investment for communities that have been underinvested in for too long. EPA projects a national total of 9 million lead services lines across the country, based on data collected from the updated 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment. The funding will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement and will help New Jersey fund projects to remove lead pipes and reduce exposure to lead from drinking water. This Lead Service Line-specific formula allows states to receive financial assistance commensurate with their need as soon as possible, furthering public health protection nationwide. To ensure that funding is used for lead service line related activities, LSLR allotments are based on need — meaning that states with more projected lead service lines receive proportionally more.
New Jersey American Water provides water service to 34 municipalities across Essex, Union, Morris, Somerset, and Hunterdon Counties. The Passaic Water System delivers approximately 34.0 million gallons per day (MGD) of potable water to around 79,860 customers and serves approximately 84,000 service connections within its franchise areas.
Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode, especially where the water has high acidity or low mineral content that corrodes pipes and fixtures. The most common sources of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures. In homes with lead pipes that connect the home to the water main, also known as lead services lines, these pipes are typically the most significant source of lead in the water. Lead pipes are more likely to be found in older cities and homes built before 1986. Among homes without lead service lines, the most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and plumbing with lead solder.
To view more stories about how the unprecedented investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are transforming communities across the country, visit EPA’s Investing in America’s Water Infrastructure Story Map.
To read more about some additional projects that are underway, see EPA’s recently released Quarterly Report on Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funded Clean Water and Drinking Water SRF projects and explore the State Revolving Funds Public Portal.
For more information, visit EPA’s lead Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, please visit EPA’s Drinking Water website.
For more information about the EPA’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program, visit www.epa.gov/lslr
Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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EPA has awarded total of $254 million to New Jersey in the first three years of the five-year Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Program Capitalization Grant Program. These funds will support projects under a state-wide ten-year implementation plan, with a primary focus on disadvantaged communities.
“This project is a perfect example of the historic federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law providing vital funds to New Jersey to ensure that our communities, and especially our children, have safe and lead free drinking water,” said Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “EPA is happy to partner with NJ as we prioritize getting the lead out. There is no safe level of lead exposure, and we know that the primary source of harmful exposure in drinking water is through lead pipes.”
“Safe and reliable water infrastructure is critical to the vitality of our communities,” NJDEP Commissioner Shawn LaTourette said. “This record-setting, billion-dollar investment in our water infrastructure throughout the state demonstrates the high level of commitment that our local governments and water systems are making to protect public health and the environment. It also underscores the proud and productive partnership between the Murphy Administration and the Biden Administration to enhance the quality of life and create jobs through infrastructure investments.”
President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests a historic $15 billion to identify and replace lead service lines. The law mandates that 49% of funds provided through the DWSRF General Supplemental Funding and DWSRF Lead Service Line Replacement Funding must be provided as grants and forgivable loans to disadvantaged communities, a crucial investment for communities that have been underinvested in for too long. EPA projects a national total of 9 million lead services lines across the country, based on data collected from the updated 7th Drinking Water Infrastructure Needs Survey and Assessment. The funding will be provided specifically for lead service line identification and replacement and will help New Jersey fund projects to remove lead pipes and reduce exposure to lead from drinking water. This Lead Service Line-specific formula allows states to receive financial assistance commensurate with their need as soon as possible, furthering public health protection nationwide. To ensure that funding is used for lead service line related activities, LSLR allotments are based on need — meaning that states with more projected lead service lines receive proportionally more.
New Jersey American Water provides water service to 34 municipalities across Essex, Union, Morris, Somerset, and Hunterdon Counties. The Passaic Water System delivers approximately 34.0 million gallons per day (MGD) of potable water to around 79,860 customers and serves approximately 84,000 service connections within its franchise areas.
Lead can enter drinking water when plumbing materials that contain lead corrode, especially where the water has high acidity or low mineral content that corrodes pipes and fixtures. The most common sources of lead in drinking water are lead pipes, faucets, and fixtures. In homes with lead pipes that connect the home to the water main, also known as lead services lines, these pipes are typically the most significant source of lead in the water. Lead pipes are more likely to be found in older cities and homes built before 1986. Among homes without lead service lines, the most common problem is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and plumbing with lead solder.
To view more stories about how the unprecedented investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are transforming communities across the country, visit EPA’s Investing in America’s Water Infrastructure Story Map.
To read more about some additional projects that are underway, see EPA’s recently released Quarterly Report on Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funded Clean Water and Drinking Water SRF projects and explore the State Revolving Funds Public Portal.
For more information, visit EPA’s lead Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, please visit EPA’s Drinking Water website.
For more information about the EPA’s Lead Service Line Replacement Program, visit www.epa.gov/lslr
Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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Rhode Island to benefit from a $450 million grant for community-driven solutions to cut climate pollution across New England
BOSTON (JULY 22, 2024) – Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the general competition selection of the New England Heat Pump Accelerator to receive a $450 million 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.
The New England Heat Pump Accelerator is a coalition application led by Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, in partnership with the Maine Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, and Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources. The selected application will fund projects across Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island that will rapidly accelerate the adoption of cold-climate air-source heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and ground source heat pumps. The project will support coalition partners in providing resources for more than 500,000 single-family and multifamily residential buildings.
"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."
"No community should have to worry about a future of heat waves, flooding, and sea level rise; and every community should be able to seize the opportunities of a transition to a clean energy future. Today's announcement underscores our commitment to addressing the climate crisis head-on through collaborative, community-driven solutions," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "The $450 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant for the New England Heat Pump Accelerator will not only advance our region's clean energy transition and create good jobs, but also deliver significant benefits to our communities by improving air quality, reducing energy costs, and fostering environmental justice. By working together, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island are setting a powerful example of regional cooperation and innovation in tackling climate change."
"The federal government is revving up its engine to help people make the switch to cleaner and cheaper home energy options. Heat pumps are reliable, efficient and offer long-term economic and environmental benefits, helping consumers save big on their energy bills while reducing America's dependence on foreign oil. This is a smart investment in incentivizing people to make the upgrade to heat pumps so they can save money, increase the comfort and safety of their homes, and build cleaner communities. The more adopters, the more people will see the benefits that heat pumps generate in terms of home heating and cooling," said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.
"The New England Heat Pump Accelerator will advance progress toward the Ocean State's clean energy goals and ensuring a safe, livable planet for our children and grandchildren," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, who helped shape major climate provisions included in the Inflation Reduction Act. "Thanks to Democrats' Inflation Reduction Act, we're sending resources directly into communities across Rhode Island to help reduce climate pollution and make energy-efficient heating and cooling more accessible and affordable for families."
"Transitioning to energy efficient appliances like heat pumps is a smart move that can lower energy bills and save Rhode Islanders money during hot summers and cold winters alike," said Congressman Seth Magaziner. "I'm glad that this federal funding will ultimately put more money in the pockets of working people in RI and across the country."
"Thanks to today's announcement, thousands of residents in Rhode Island will soon be able to leverage federal support to upgrade their homes," said Congressman Gabe Amo. "These resources will help Ocean State homeowners save on their monthly bills and I am encouraged these energy efficient transformations will also accelerate our commitment to reduce our state's carbon footprint, meet our clean energy goals, and combat the climate crisis. I applaud President Joe Biden and Administrator Michael Regan for their commitment to invest in Rhode Island and bring down costs for families.
"This federal grant will help Rhode Island build on our successful Clean Heat RI program which is already helping to deploy heat pump installations across the state, lower costs for residents and advance our emission reduction objectives," said Governor Dan McKee. "Today's announcement is a big climate win for Team Rhode Island and our partnering states. Together, we are proud to receive the only award in New England and the second largest in the nation from today's EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant awards. We thank the Biden-Harris Administration, our congressional delegation and all federal partners for continuing to invest in Rhode Island's future."
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 percent 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 percent 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 (pdf) (1.7 MB), the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.
Learn more about the selected applications
Learn more about the CPRG program
The New England Heat Pump Accelerator is a coalition application led by Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, in partnership with the Maine Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, and Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources. The selected application will fund projects across Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island that will rapidly accelerate the adoption of cold-climate air-source heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and ground source heat pumps. The project will support coalition partners in providing resources for more than 500,000 single-family and multifamily residential buildings.
"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."
"No community should have to worry about a future of heat waves, flooding, and sea level rise; and every community should be able to seize the opportunities of a transition to a clean energy future. Today's announcement underscores our commitment to addressing the climate crisis head-on through collaborative, community-driven solutions," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "The $450 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant for the New England Heat Pump Accelerator will not only advance our region's clean energy transition and create good jobs, but also deliver significant benefits to our communities by improving air quality, reducing energy costs, and fostering environmental justice. By working together, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island are setting a powerful example of regional cooperation and innovation in tackling climate change."
"The federal government is revving up its engine to help people make the switch to cleaner and cheaper home energy options. Heat pumps are reliable, efficient and offer long-term economic and environmental benefits, helping consumers save big on their energy bills while reducing America's dependence on foreign oil. This is a smart investment in incentivizing people to make the upgrade to heat pumps so they can save money, increase the comfort and safety of their homes, and build cleaner communities. The more adopters, the more people will see the benefits that heat pumps generate in terms of home heating and cooling," said U.S. Senator Jack Reed.
"The New England Heat Pump Accelerator will advance progress toward the Ocean State's clean energy goals and ensuring a safe, livable planet for our children and grandchildren," said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, who helped shape major climate provisions included in the Inflation Reduction Act. "Thanks to Democrats' Inflation Reduction Act, we're sending resources directly into communities across Rhode Island to help reduce climate pollution and make energy-efficient heating and cooling more accessible and affordable for families."
"Transitioning to energy efficient appliances like heat pumps is a smart move that can lower energy bills and save Rhode Islanders money during hot summers and cold winters alike," said Congressman Seth Magaziner. "I'm glad that this federal funding will ultimately put more money in the pockets of working people in RI and across the country."
"Thanks to today's announcement, thousands of residents in Rhode Island will soon be able to leverage federal support to upgrade their homes," said Congressman Gabe Amo. "These resources will help Ocean State homeowners save on their monthly bills and I am encouraged these energy efficient transformations will also accelerate our commitment to reduce our state's carbon footprint, meet our clean energy goals, and combat the climate crisis. I applaud President Joe Biden and Administrator Michael Regan for their commitment to invest in Rhode Island and bring down costs for families.
"This federal grant will help Rhode Island build on our successful Clean Heat RI program which is already helping to deploy heat pump installations across the state, lower costs for residents and advance our emission reduction objectives," said Governor Dan McKee. "Today's announcement is a big climate win for Team Rhode Island and our partnering states. Together, we are proud to receive the only award in New England and the second largest in the nation from today's EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant awards. We thank the Biden-Harris Administration, our congressional delegation and all federal partners for continuing to invest in Rhode Island's future."
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 percent 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 percent 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 (pdf) (1.7 MB), the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.
Learn more about the selected applications
Learn more about the CPRG program
EPA Announces Nearly $250 Million Grant to New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to Cut Climate Pollution on I-95
NEW YORK - Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the selection of the Clean Corridor Coalition, led by New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection , to receive a nearly $250 million 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.
“Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in our efforts to address climate change and promote environmental justice along Interstate 95,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “The nearly $250 million grant to the Clean Corridor Coalition will not only reduce harmful emissions along one of the nation’s busiest freight corridors but will also help create jobs and produce health benefits for every community along I-95.”
“We thank the Biden-Harris Administration and our federal partners at the EPA for supporting the Murphy Administration’s commitment to a zero-emissions future that combats climate change and protects public health,” said New Jersey Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette. “This award of nearly $250 million for truck charging infrastructure is a critical down payment for zero-emission freight movement and will catalyze the deployment of zero-emission freight trucks in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.”
“Building out New Jersey’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure helps our state lead the way in clean energy, green jobs, and securing a more secure and sustainable future. I am proud that the Inflation Reduction Act is delivering for our state and the I-95 Corridor through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program and is making historic and critical strides to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Representative Andy Kim (NJ-03).
"I proudly helped author the historic Inflation Reduction Act, which has been a game-changer in our fight against climate change and protecting our environment. This $248.9 million grant, made possible through that law, is a huge step toward cutting greenhouse gas emissions and boosting clean energy infrastructure along the I-95 corridor. The Clean Corridor Coalition project not only tackles climate pollution but also supports job training and regional planning. By investing in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, we're paving the way for a greener future and showing our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Representative Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the US House Energy and Commerce Committee.
“I applaud the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to install electric-vehicle charging infrastructure along the I-95 corridor in New Jersey. As one of the most densely populated states in the nation, it’s critical that the Garden State continues to reduce vehicle emissions and pollution in order to ensure residents have fresh air and mitigate the impacts of climate change,” said Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11). “In Congress, I fought hard to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which made one of the biggest investments in climate-resilient infrastructure in our history. I am glad to see that our work is continuing to bring our federal tax dollars back to improve the quality of life in the Garden State.”
“I am thrilled to celebrate this historic investment in green energy infrastructure thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act,” said Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). “The nearly $250 million dedicated to supporting renewable energy-driven commerce along I-95 will not only help us reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change, but strengthen our local economies, create well-paying jobs, and make meaningful progress towards climate justice throughout New Jersey’s 12th District and beyond. Thank you to President Biden and the EPA for making this possible.”
The Clean Corridor Coalition is a collaborative initiative that includes the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the Delaware Department of Transportation and the Maryland Departments of the Environment and Transportation. The project aims to deploy electric vehicle charging infrastructure for commercial zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles along the Interstate-95 freight corridor. Additionally, NJDEP will provide technical assistance for workforce development and corridor planning across New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland. This initiative will not only reduce environmental exposures to transportation emissions, but increase the clean energy job pipeline, job training, and enterprise creation in disadvantaged communities. Workforce training programs will be specifically designed to include outreach to and recruit members of underserved areas, including those without college degrees.
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.
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 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: 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.
See the complete list of selected applications
Learn about the CPRG program
Learn more about how greenhouse gas reduction can occur in different sectors
Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
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“Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in our efforts to address climate change and promote environmental justice along Interstate 95,” said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. “The nearly $250 million grant to the Clean Corridor Coalition will not only reduce harmful emissions along one of the nation’s busiest freight corridors but will also help create jobs and produce health benefits for every community along I-95.”
“We thank the Biden-Harris Administration and our federal partners at the EPA for supporting the Murphy Administration’s commitment to a zero-emissions future that combats climate change and protects public health,” said New Jersey Commissioner of Environmental Protection Shawn M. LaTourette. “This award of nearly $250 million for truck charging infrastructure is a critical down payment for zero-emission freight movement and will catalyze the deployment of zero-emission freight trucks in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.”
“Building out New Jersey’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure helps our state lead the way in clean energy, green jobs, and securing a more secure and sustainable future. I am proud that the Inflation Reduction Act is delivering for our state and the I-95 Corridor through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program and is making historic and critical strides to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” said Representative Andy Kim (NJ-03).
"I proudly helped author the historic Inflation Reduction Act, which has been a game-changer in our fight against climate change and protecting our environment. This $248.9 million grant, made possible through that law, is a huge step toward cutting greenhouse gas emissions and boosting clean energy infrastructure along the I-95 corridor. The Clean Corridor Coalition project not only tackles climate pollution but also supports job training and regional planning. By investing in electric vehicle charging infrastructure, we're paving the way for a greener future and showing our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Representative Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Ranking Member of the US House Energy and Commerce Committee.
“I applaud the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to install electric-vehicle charging infrastructure along the I-95 corridor in New Jersey. As one of the most densely populated states in the nation, it’s critical that the Garden State continues to reduce vehicle emissions and pollution in order to ensure residents have fresh air and mitigate the impacts of climate change,” said Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11). “In Congress, I fought hard to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which made one of the biggest investments in climate-resilient infrastructure in our history. I am glad to see that our work is continuing to bring our federal tax dollars back to improve the quality of life in the Garden State.”
“I am thrilled to celebrate this historic investment in green energy infrastructure thanks to President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act,” said Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). “The nearly $250 million dedicated to supporting renewable energy-driven commerce along I-95 will not only help us reduce carbon emissions and mitigate climate change, but strengthen our local economies, create well-paying jobs, and make meaningful progress towards climate justice throughout New Jersey’s 12th District and beyond. Thank you to President Biden and the EPA for making this possible.”
The Clean Corridor Coalition is a collaborative initiative that includes the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, the Delaware Department of Transportation and the Maryland Departments of the Environment and Transportation. The project aims to deploy electric vehicle charging infrastructure for commercial zero-emission medium- and heavy-duty vehicles along the Interstate-95 freight corridor. Additionally, NJDEP will provide technical assistance for workforce development and corridor planning across New Jersey, Connecticut, Delaware and Maryland. This initiative will not only reduce environmental exposures to transportation emissions, but increase the clean energy job pipeline, job training, and enterprise creation in disadvantaged communities. Workforce training programs will be specifically designed to include outreach to and recruit members of underserved areas, including those without college degrees.
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.
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 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: 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.
See the complete list of selected applications
Learn about the CPRG program
Learn more about how greenhouse gas reduction can occur in different sectors
Follow EPA Region 2 on X and visit our Facebook page. For more information about EPA Region 2, visit our website.
24-057
Maine to benefit from a $450 million grant for community-driven solutions to cut climate pollution across New England
BOSTON (JULY 22, 2024) – Today, as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced the general competition selection of the New England Heat Pump Accelerator to receive a $450 million 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.
The New England Heat Pump Accelerator is a coalition application led by Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, in partnership with the Maine Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, and Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources. The selected application will fund projects across Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island that will rapidly accelerate the adoption of cold-climate air-source heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and ground source heat pumps. The project will support coalition partners in providing resources for more than 500,000 single-family and multifamily residential buildings.
"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."
"No community should have to worry about a future of heat waves, flooding, and sea level rise; and every community should be able to seize the opportunities of a transition to a clean energy future. Today's announcement underscores our commitment to addressing the climate crisis head-on through collaborative, community-driven solutions," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "The $450 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant for the New England Heat Pump Accelerator will not only advance our region's clean energy transition and create good jobs, but also deliver significant benefits to our communities by improving air quality, reducing energy costs, and fostering environmental justice. By working together, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island are setting a powerful example of regional cooperation and innovation in tackling climate change."
"Heat pumps have become a greener, more energy efficient way for Maine people to save money during harsh New England winters," said U.S. Senator Angus King. "Across our state, we are already seeing the impacts heat pumps have on minimizing our carbon footprint while maximizing the amount of money staying in the pockets of Maine people. Our state will continue to lead in the cost-efficient energy space thanks to this EPA grant for the New England Heat Pump Accelerator Program."
"Mainers rely on fuel oil to heat our homes more than anywhere else in the country. Maine has already made significant progress on turning this high energy burden into an opportunity for climate progress, and this Climate Pollution Reduction Grant will accelerate our statewide transition to cleaner, more efficient, and cost-effective heat pumps. This grant will not only save Mainers and our neighbors money on their energy bills but will further America's climate goals to curb fossil fuel emissions and meet the growing challenge of climate change," said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree.
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 percent 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 percent 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 (pdf) (1.7 MB), the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.
Learn more about the selected applications
Learn more about the CPRG program
The New England Heat Pump Accelerator is a coalition application led by Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, in partnership with the Maine Governor's Office of Policy Innovation and the Future, Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, and Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources. The selected application will fund projects across Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island that will rapidly accelerate the adoption of cold-climate air-source heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and ground source heat pumps. The project will support coalition partners in providing resources for more than 500,000 single-family and multifamily residential buildings.
"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."
"No community should have to worry about a future of heat waves, flooding, and sea level rise; and every community should be able to seize the opportunities of a transition to a clean energy future. Today's announcement underscores our commitment to addressing the climate crisis head-on through collaborative, community-driven solutions," said EPA Regional Administrator David W. Cash. "The $450 million Climate Pollution Reduction Grant for the New England Heat Pump Accelerator will not only advance our region's clean energy transition and create good jobs, but also deliver significant benefits to our communities by improving air quality, reducing energy costs, and fostering environmental justice. By working together, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island are setting a powerful example of regional cooperation and innovation in tackling climate change."
"Heat pumps have become a greener, more energy efficient way for Maine people to save money during harsh New England winters," said U.S. Senator Angus King. "Across our state, we are already seeing the impacts heat pumps have on minimizing our carbon footprint while maximizing the amount of money staying in the pockets of Maine people. Our state will continue to lead in the cost-efficient energy space thanks to this EPA grant for the New England Heat Pump Accelerator Program."
"Mainers rely on fuel oil to heat our homes more than anywhere else in the country. Maine has already made significant progress on turning this high energy burden into an opportunity for climate progress, and this Climate Pollution Reduction Grant will accelerate our statewide transition to cleaner, more efficient, and cost-effective heat pumps. This grant will not only save Mainers and our neighbors money on their energy bills but will further America's climate goals to curb fossil fuel emissions and meet the growing challenge of climate change," said Congresswoman Chellie Pingree.
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 percent 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 percent 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 (pdf) (1.7 MB), the National Climate Resilience Framework, and more.
Learn more about the selected applications
Learn more about the CPRG program