The Biden administration is rushing to steer the United States toward renewable energy before the end of the president’s term, approving its 10th offshore wind project, with even broader goals in sight.
At a Glance
- Biden administration aims for 30 gigawatts of offshore wind power by 2030.
- Initiatives aim to create jobs, strengthen supply chains, and transition to clean energy.
- The Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program receives $7.3 billion investment.
- Efforts include modernizing regulations to save developers $1.9 billion over 20 years.
Pushing for Offshore Wind Energy
The Biden-Harris administration approved its 10th offshore wind project, achieving 15 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity. This milestone supports the administration’s 2030 goal of generating 30 gigawatts of offshore wind power. By increasing this capacity, the United States aims to provide energy for 10 million homes, supporting 77,000 jobs and reducing carbon emissions significantly over the years.
Efforts include accelerating permitting processes for offshore wind projects with over $1 billion investment to modernize regulations. Strategic measures save developers $1.9 billion over two decades, which encourages robust development of the sector. The approach intends to anchor the achievements within the broader energy infrastructure of the country.
SPENDING OUR TAXPAYER MONEY WHILE THEY HAVE THE CHANCE: The Biden-Harris Administration is shelling out billions of dollars for major offshore wind projects before their term ends. https://t.co/cmD9g55d3D
— Robert Borghese (@RBorg1235) October 20, 2024
Impact on Rural Areas
In a large-scale commitment to rural electrification, the Biden administration announced $7.3 billion in clean energy investments through the Empowering Rural America (New ERA) program. This initiative represents the largest investment in rural electrification since the New Deal. The investments aim to build over 10 gigawatts of clean energy, including wind, solar, nuclear, and hydropower projects.
“Under the Biden-Harris Administration, we are supporting a more prosperous future for rural communities by speeding up the transition to clean energy while at the same time keeping monthly bills low and investing in the American workforce with new jobs and apprenticeships.” – Secretary Vilsack
Combining funding from the President’s Inflation Reduction Act, the strategy benefits 5 million rural households, providing opportunities across 23 states. The government demonstrates its intent to rejuvenate rural areas, supporting 4,500 permanent jobs and 16,000 construction jobs through this comprehensive clean energy initiative.
Long-Term Objectives
By 2035, the administration strives to achieve 15 gigawatts of floating offshore wind capacity, with initiatives to advance technology in deep-water areas and reduce associated costs. These strategic goals serve as a testament to President Joe Biden’s commitment to entrenching a sustainable climate legacy that future administrations can build upon.
Key investments enhance transmission and port infrastructure, key for supporting offshore wind energy and job creation. This multifaceted approach demonstrates the administration’s resolution to face climate change challenges while ensuring sustainable development and energy independence.
Sources:
- FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Hits Offshore Wind Milestone, Continues to Advance Clean Energy Opportunities
- Biden-Harris Administration Announces $7.3 Billion in Clean Energy Investments from the Investing in America Agenda, Largest Investment in Rural Electrification Since the New Deal
- Biden Admin Races to Shell Out Billions for Clean Energy
