The US Department of Energy (DOE) has unveiled a $425 million funding program aimed at decarbonizing and manufacturing clean energy products in former coal communities. This strategic move is a pivotal component of President Biden's ambitious Investing in America agenda, facilitated by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL). 2tv33

Revitalizing communities and building a sustainable future

Managed by the Office of Manufacturing and Energy Supply Chains (MESC), the Advanced Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program under the BIL seeks to create good-paying manufacturing jobs, establish resilient domestic energy supply chains, and significantly reduce industrial emissions. The program focuses on empowering small and medium-sized manufacturers in both current and former coal communities, ensuring they play a vital role in the clean energy transition.

Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm's vision

US Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "All across America, we're seeing a manufacturing boom that is revitalizing communities while preserving and expanding the local workforce. DOE is utilizing the historic investments in President Biden's Investing in America agenda to expand economic opportunities, ensuring former coal communities lead in powering our nation."

Prioritizing clean energy manufacturing and industrial decarbonization

In the second round of funding, the DOE will prioritize two key investment themes: Clean Energy Manufacturing and Recycling (building on the success of the first round) and Industrial Decarbonization. This new focus aims to upgrade manufacturing facilities to substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create low-carbon materials. Eligible projects must be situated in communities affected by coal mine closures since December 31, 1999, or coal-fired power plant closures since December 31, 2009. 

Commitment to community impact and social equity

Applicants are required to submit a detailed plan demonstrating the project's quantifiable impact and benefits to workers and local communities. The DOE emphasizes its commitment to engaging communities and labor, investing in quality jobs, advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and implementing the President's Justice40 Initiative. 

Timeline and application details

Interested parties can learn more about the funding opportunity through an informational webinar scheduled for March 14, 2024, at 3:30 pm ET. Concept papers are due by April 8, 2024, at 5:00 pm ET, and full applications are due by June 24, 2024, at 5:00 pm ET.

ing America's energy future

The Advanced Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program represents one of the many historic BIL investments ing President Biden's agenda to grow the US industrial base, strengthen supply chains, and promote clean energy manufacturing. Learn more about MESC's mission to catalyze investments in America's energy future, ing the re-shoring, skilling, and scaling of US manufacturing across energy supply chains.