How Trump’s second term could derail the clean energy transition
What a whirlwind campaign season, and now it is clear that Trump is back in office. This will certainly have consequences for the American clean energy industry, which can only be described as bursting at the seams with enthusiasm, innovation, and funding.
One thing we know for sure, GPG is not going anywhere, or straying from the mission. Clean energy will eventually win, if only because cleaner energy = cheaper energy. If you are looking for an opportunity to connect, and learn about energy efficiency & electrification for a more livable planet, join us tomorrow night at the Holland Energy Expo. I'll be speaking at 4:55pm. Details at the bottom.
It looks like Trump will likely repeal key EPA regulations that limit greenhouse gas emissions, and withdraw the USA from the Paris Agreement, again.
But he probably can't totally repeal the landmark Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), or all the funds allocated for climate work from the 2021 bipartisan infrastructure law. As a reminder, the IRA is sending about $210 million to Michigan to fund energy efficiency and electrification (AKA our jam!). Since these were legislated, he would need monumental support from Republicans in congress to repeal it. They probably won't have enough members to do this; 18 house republicans have recently issued a letter of caution to Speaker Mike Johnson, warning that this would be inadvisable. Why would republicans issue such a statement?
Well, since most of the investment and job growth the IRA has spurred has taken place in states and congressional districts represented by Republicans, it seems unlikely that a repeal of the funds would be a popular proposition. Many private dollars have already been funneled into these clean energy projects, so a full repeal would be... pretty disastrous for many investors and businesses.
There's also the desire to “'consolidate American dominance' in key energy sectors and industries now dominated by China," as described by J.D. Vance. Supporting the American clean energy boom would seem to line up well with this priority.
As with the first Trump presidency, only time will tell which gears he oils up, and which he throws sand into.
A good time was had at the Holland Energy Expo!
I enjoyed connecting with many Hollanders. You took time out of your day or evening to come learn about energy efficiency and electrification. You are making the change a reality. Thank you so much for what you do!
The most basic explanation of our service can be reduced it to two basic questions:
1. Is your home ready for a heat pump?
2. If not, what do we need to do to the building shell to get it there?
Usually this starts with a Department of Energy Home Energy Score! Sign up at https://shop.greenprojectsgroup.com/products/doe-home-energy-assessment.
You could also sign up for Holland's FREE Home Energy 101 session to get oriented and get a helpful, friendly educational walkthrough of your home. Sign up at www.hollandenergyfund.com.
Get electric or stay electric friends, and be well!