Biden Administration Ties $6 Billion in Climate Funding to Equity Initiatives
Department of Energy Mandates DEI Initiatives for $6 Billion Federal Funding
The Department of Energy has revealed that $6 billion in federal funding for energy and manufacturing has been secured by President Biden’s administration. This funding aims to support over 30 projects across the nation as part of Biden’s Investing in America agenda. These projects focus on developing decarbonization technologies crucial for meeting climate goals and boosting domestic manufacturing.
Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm emphasized the importance of these investments in spurring the next generation of decarbonization technologies in key industries like steel, paper, concrete and glass. Granholm highlighted that these investments will not only reduce emissions but also keep America competitive globally. However, it is clarified that projects receiving funding must develop and implement a Community Benefits Plan to ensure equitable and inclusive impacts. The Department of Energy will closely monitor the implementation of these plans and may withdraw funding if necessary.
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Biden Administration Ties $6B Climate Funding to Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives (PHOTO: Fox Business)
Department of Energy Implements Comprehensive Criteria for Community Benefits Plans (CBPs)
The Community Benefits Plans required for funded projects are based on four core priorities: engaging communities and labor, investing in America’s workforce, advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility and implementing the Justice40 initiative. These plans will be crucial in determining a projects selection and ongoing evaluation. The Department of Energy’s phased project management approach allows for the assessment of a project’s viability at major milestones, ensuring that investments contribute positively to both the economy and communities across the country.
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