The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a $4.6 billion grant program aimed at reducing climate pollution, advancing environmental justice, and promoting clean energy solutions. This initiative, known as the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG), is the second phase of the EPA's $5 billion Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program, which was established under President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act. The first phase provided $250 million to assist states and major cities in developing their own climate action plans, and the current phase focuses on implementing these plans.
Martha Guzman, EPA Pacific Southwest Regional Administrator, commended the grants for their emphasis on the Pacific Southwest region. Guzman stated that the grants will empower states, tribes, and territories to take innovative steps in reducing greenhouse gases and local air pollution. The involvement of local and state governments is crucial in achieving President Biden's commitment to reduce climate pollution by 50-52% by 2030. John Podesta, Senior Advisor to the President for Clean Energy Innovation and Implementation, highlighted the program's importance in benefiting low-income and disadvantaged communities.
The $4.6 billion competition is divided into two parts: a general competition and a separate competition specifically for tribes and territories. Grant applications that promise the highest reduction in greenhouse gas emissions will be prioritized. Under the general competition, the EPA expects to award between 30 and 115 grants ranging from $2 million to $500 million. For the competition focused on tribes and territories, the agency anticipates awarding 25 to 100 grants ranging from $1 million to $25 million.
Overall, the EPA's Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program aims to support state, local, and tribal governments in their efforts to combat climate change, promote environmental justice, and deploy clean energy solutions. These grants will play a crucial role in achieving the ambitious climate goals set by the Biden administration and will benefit communities across the country.
