Author: GWRCCC Staff Published: 9/23/2024 Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition
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Sept 23-27, 2024
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State/D.C. News
Greater Washington Clean Cities Coalition Annual Clean Energy and Transportation Conference
Join us for the 2024 Annual Clean Energy and Transportation Conference on October 15 and 16, 2024, at Martin’s Crosswind in Greenbelt, MD. The event kicks off with a virtual pre-conference on October 15, followed by a full day of panels and discussions on October 16, featuring topics like alternative fuel corridors, sustainable aviation fuels, and heavy-duty vehicle emissions. This is an outstanding networking opportunity, learning about funding opportunities, and showcasing alternative fuel vehicles. Registration is available on Eventbrite, with special rates for members and sponsors. Don’t miss out on this chance to engage with leaders in clean energy and transportation!
Maryland Energy Administration Seeks Public Input for New Electric Vehicle Charging Program to Enhance Accessibility and Reduce Emissions
The MEA wants public input to shape the new EVSE Equity Program. This initiative aims to expand access to EV charging infrastructure in underserved communities, aligning with Governor Moore’s $23 million investment in EV infrastructure. The program is designed to address both the affordability and availability of reliable charging stations in low- and moderate-income areas while reducing transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions. MEA encourages stakeholders to submit feedback by October 23, 2024, to shape the final design of the FY 2025 program.
Bird Dog Distributors Develops Plastics Manufacturing Facility in Southwest Virginia
The Virginia Department of Energy’s Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization (AMLER) program granted $525,000 to Bird Dog Distributors, LLC, a leading plastics manufacturer, with an anticipation of 43 new jobs. This funding will support new manufacturing equipment and upgrades, further strengthening the company’s operations. U.S. Representative Morgan Griffith emphasized the potential of the Coalfields region for economic revitalization, stating, “This grant enhances Bird Dog’s ability to provide job opportunities for Dickenson County.” Virginia Energy Director Glenn Davis noted that the expansion represents a significant win for the community, positioning it for future growth and sustainability.
https://www.osmre.gov/programs/reclaiming-abandoned-mine-lands/amler
National News
Biden-Harris Administration Announces Over $3 Billion to Boost U.S. Battery Manufacturing and Enhance National Security.
The Biden-Harris Administration invests over $3 billion across 25 projects in 14 states to accelerate domestic battery production and critical material processing. These initiatives will develop over 12,000 jobs—8,000 in construction and 4,000 in operations—furthering clean energy goals and amplifying the U.S. electric grid. Backed by the Department of Energy’s Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC), the projects will help onshore critical minerals like lithium, expand battery manufacturing, and support recycling efforts. This investment is part of the broader $16 billion plan to build a resilient and secure battery supply chain, advancing the nation’s economic competitiveness and energy security.
Maine Launches Federal Home Energy Rebate Program to Lower Utility Bills
The Biden-Harris Administration has announced the launch of Maine’s Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR), part of the federal Home Energy Rebates program supported by the Inflation Reduction Act. Maine households can now access rebates for energy-efficient upgrades, including up to $14,000 for low-income manufactured homeowners. These incentives aim to reduce utility costs, improve energy efficiency, and support local jobs in clean energy.
Heliene to Onshore Solar Cell Production in Minnesota, Fueled by Federal Climate Incentives
Federal incentives are driving Heliene’s evolution of solar cell manufacturing in Minnesota. The company aims to reduce dependency on imports by producing domestic solar cells in partnership with India’s Premier Energies. Heliene’s CEO, Martin Pochtaruk, highlights that U.S.-made components allow solar developers to access more effective tax incentives, benefiting manufacturers and consumers. Heliene plans to create over 200 jobs with their new venture, aiming to make the factory operational by 2026 to support the demands of the U.S. solar market.
Funding Opportunities
Funding Announcement for Chesapeake Bay Ferry Service
Anne Arundel County will receive nearly $3.9 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation as part of a broader initiative to expand ferry systems across the nation. This funding, drawn from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support the purchase and operation of a new electric passenger ferry service connecting Annapolis, Baltimore, and Matapeake Park. County Executive Steuart Pittman emphasized the importance of this grant, stating it aligns with the industry’s shift toward electric ferries. The proposed service aims to improve transportation possibilities for residents and tourists while utilizing existing docks at all three locations.
SuperTruck Charge Program
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has launched the SuperTruck Charge program, offering $72 million in funding for innovative electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure projects aimed at medium- and heavy-duty vehicles (MHDVs). This initiative will sustain the design and demonstration of high-capacity charging installations near key ports and corridors, addressing the growing demand for efficient charging solutions. As part of the application process, participants must submit a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan, spotlighting actions to foster inclusivity and support underserved communities. Concept papers are due by October 8, 2024, with full applications required by November 20, 2024.
DOE Announces $3 Million Initiative to Improve Industrial Decarbonization Workforce
On September 16, 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) unveiled a $3 million initiative focused on enhancing the workforce necessary for decarbonizing the U.S. industrial sector. The Industrial Sustainability, Energy Efficiency, and Decarbonization (ISEED) Collaborative will provide resources to expand training programs focused on sustainability and energy efficiency, available to workers at all levels. Up to six selected organizations will receive funding and support to construct scalable workforce resolutions over two years. Applications are due by November 1, 2024, with an informational webinar scheduled for October 9, 2024.
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