Michael S. Regan 16th Administrator, United States Environmental Protection Agency | Official Website
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that the Missouri Environmental Improvement and Energy Resources Authority (EIERA) will receive $156 million to develop solar programs for low-income and disadvantaged communities. This initiative falls under the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund grant competition, aligning with President Biden's focus on environmental and economic goals.
EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan highlighted the significance of the grant, stating, “Today we’re delivering on President Biden’s promise that no community is left behind by investing $7 billion in solar energy projects for over 900,000 households in low-income and disadvantaged communities.” The aim is to create jobs, lower energy costs, promote environmental justice, and address climate change.
EPA Region 7 Administrator Meghan A. McCollister emphasized the positive impact of the Missouri EIERA program, stating, “Through the Missouri EIERA, EPA is providing meaningful change for our Missouri communities by reducing or avoiding greenhouse gas emissions, lowering energy bills, and increasing access to clean energy for disadvantaged communities.”
The Missouri EIERA is among 49 state-level awardees receiving a total of approximately $5.5 billion to advance solar energy initiatives. The Solar for All program aligns with President Biden's Justice40 Initiative, aiming to direct benefits to marginalized and overburdened communities. The ultimate goal is to achieve a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035 and a net-zero emissions economy by 2050.
The $7 billion investment in clean energy through the Solar for All program is expected to create around 200,000 jobs nationwide. Selected applicants are committed to reducing climate and air pollution, benefiting low-income communities, and mobilizing financing for affordable solar energy projects. The program aims to open new markets for distributed solar, especially in areas where such initiatives have been lacking.
The selection process for the Solar for All program involved extensive review by experts from various government agencies, ensuring transparency and adherence to evaluation criteria. Awards are expected to be finalized in summer 2024, with projects set to commence in the fall and winter of the same year. Informational webinars will be held to provide further details and engage with the public on the program's progress.
