The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a $425 million funding initiative, the Advanced Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program, designed to support small and medium-sized manufacturers. The program is specifically aimed at communities in current and former coal regions, with the goal of promoting the production and recycling of clean energy products while encouraging decarbonization efforts at manufacturing sites.
The program is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and managed by the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC). It seeks to strengthen secure, resilient domestic energy supply chains while stimulating job creation and rejuvenating energy communities. In its second round, the DOE will prioritize two investment themes: Clean Energy Manufacturing and Recycling, and Industrial Decarbonization. According to a press release by DOE, applicants must target communities affected by coal mine closures since Dec. 31, 1999, or coal-fired power plant closures since Dec. 31, 2009. They must also demonstrate quantifiable impacts on workers and local communities in alignment with DOE's engagement and equity initiatives.
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm stated in a DOE press release that "all across America we’re seeing a manufacturing boom that is revitalizing communities while preserving and expanding the local workforce." Granholm added that "DOE is utilizing the historic investments in President Biden’s Investing in America agenda to expand economic opportunities to ensure former coal communities can take full advantage of the clean energy transition and continue their leading role in powering our nation."
Established in 2022, MESC leads America's energy future through $20 billion in direct investments in manufacturing capacity and workforce development. According to information provided on the MESC About webpage by DOE, it offers analytical tools and runs competitive investment programs which inform strategic investments across both the DOE and the U.S. Government. Furthermore, MESC collaborates on financing programs including what is claimed to be the largest investment tax credit for energy manufacturing, with the aim of strengthening and scaling America's clean energy supply chains.
