The U.S. Department of Energy has allocated $22 million to enhance the planning, siting, and permitting processes for large-scale renewable energy facilities, as part of President Biden’s commitment to investing in clean energy projects. The Renewable Energy Siting through Technical Engagement and Planning (R-STEP) program will receive $10 million to support six state-based initiatives aimed at providing expertise, training, and resources to local governments and communities for the development of renewable energy and energy storage projects. This funding is crucial for achieving the Biden administration’s goal of a 100% clean electricity sector by 2035 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
According to U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm, solar, wind energy, and battery storage are expected to constitute a record-breaking 94% of the nation’s new electric-generating capabilities this year. However, challenges in siting and permitting often hinder the deployment of clean energy projects. By empowering local leaders with the necessary resources, the administration aims to facilitate the deployment of clean energy solutions tailored to the unique needs of communities. To achieve the target of 100% clean electricity by 2035, solar and wind power will need to contribute up to 80% of U.S. electricity, underscoring the importance of removing barriers to rapid deployment.
The R-STEP program will focus on addressing the needs of stakeholders, developing educational materials, and offering technical assistance to expedite the deployment of large-scale renewable energy projects. By engaging in meaningful community dialogue, these initiatives aim to unlock opportunities for community wealth-building, workforce development, grid resilience enhancement, and cost savings on electricity bills, particularly in rural or underserved areas. Through these collaborations, state-based entities will serve as trusted sources of information, facilitating the equitable expansion of clean energy solutions for a sustainable future.
#RenewableEnergyPlanning #CleanEnergyDeployment #RSTEPInitiatives #CleanEnergyCommunities #SustainableFuture #NetZero2050
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