"So many families face the same challenges: something breaks, you can’t afford to replace it, and the short-term solution is really no solution at all,” said homeowner Mildred Carter of Georgia, USA. “I’m grateful for the help I got to install a brand-new heat pump water heater that provides me all the hot water I need while saving energy and money.”
Now, many more families will reportedly be able to receive similar aid in funding and implementing clean energy solutions in their homes and communities.
On Thursday, April 4, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced its eight selections for $20 billion in grants to support clean energy and climate solution projects across the U.S.
The projects focus on providing clean financing options for all communities, especially those that are disadvantaged or have low incomes.
“When President Biden and I made the largest investment in our nation's history to address the climate crisis and to build a clean energy economy, we made sure that every community would be able to participate and benefit,” said Vice President Kamala Harris.
“The grantees announced today will help ensure that families, small businesses, and community leaders have access to the capital they need to make climate and clean energy projects a reality in their neighborhoods.”
Out of the total $20 billion, $14 billion is allocated from the National Clean Investment Fund to create nationwide institutions offering affordable and accessible financing for clean technology initiatives.
Meanwhile, the remaining $6 billion from the grants is allocated through the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator, aiming to set up hubs that supply financial and technical support to community lenders focusing on low-income and disadvantaged areas.
The $20 in grant awards are a part of the $27 billion Green Gas Reduction Fund, which in return was created under the Inflation Reduction Act as a part of Biden’s ‘Investing in America’-agenda.
“The selectees announced today will deliver transformational investments for American communities, businesses, and families,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. He further highlights how the projects will, “unleash tens of thousands of clean technology projects like putting solar on small businesses, electrifying affordable housing, providing EV loans for young families, and countless others.”
“That translates to good-paying jobs, energy bill savings, and cleaner air, all while delivering on President Biden’s historic agenda to combat climate change.”