The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is launching a $7 billion grant competition, known as Solar for All, to bring affordable and clean solar energy to millions of low-income households. This initiative is part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and aims to lower energy costs for families, create jobs in marginalized communities, address environmental justice concerns, and combat climate change. The competition will award up to 60 grants to states, territories, Tribal governments, municipalities, and eligible nonprofits to develop and expand low-income solar programs. These programs will provide financing, technical assistance, and workforce development to enable low-income and disadvantaged communities to access and benefit from residential solar energy.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the need to include overburdened communities in clean energy investments and climate solutions. The Solar for All competition aims to advance residential solar projects nationwide, delivering environmental justice, cost savings for families, and the creation of well-paying jobs. Senator Bernie Sanders, who championed the program, expressed the importance of making residential rooftop solar accessible to low-income and working-class families. The program will also receive support from John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for Clean Energy Innovation and Implementation.
Solar for All will expand existing low-income solar programs and establish new ones across the country. These programs ensure equitable access to residential rooftop and community solar power, providing financial support and incentives to previously underserved communities. By investing in residential solar, the program will not only reduce pollution and improve air quality but also generate economic benefits and create clean energy jobs.
The grant competition aligns with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, aiming to direct 40% of the benefits from certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by pollution. It also supports the President’s goal of achieving a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
Solar for All will contribute to the development of quality clean energy jobs by funding workforce development programs across the nation. These programs will train workers from low-income and disadvantaged communities, offering long-term career opportunities in the clean energy industry.
The Solar for All grant program is part of the larger Inflation Reduction Act, which transformed the U.S. approach to climate change and clean energy. It has already demonstrated its impact through lower energy costs and the creation of new high-paying jobs. The initiative reflects a commitment to environmental justice and the clean energy transition while benefiting American families.