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Trump DOE Cancels $7.5B in Clean Energy Grants, Targeting Democratic States

Trump's DOE scraps billions in clean energy grants, mostly in Democratic states. Critics call it political punishment.

As we can see in the image there are bicycles, trees, fence, car and buildings.
As we can see in the image there are bicycles, trees, fence, car and buildings.

Trump DOE Cancels $7.5B in Clean Energy Grants, Targeting Democratic States

The Department of Energy has cancelled over 300 clean energy grants, worth a combined $7.5 billion, approved under the Biden administration. This move, the second major round of cancellations in the Trump administration, impacts projects across the United States, predominantly in states led by the Democratic party.

The cancellations hit at least 10 of 21 megaprojects designed to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. These projects were intended to help combat climate change and were largely supported in Democratic-led states. Energy Secretary Chris Wright defended the decision, stating it aligns with President Trump's commitment to protect taxpayer dollars and expand affordable, reliable energy.

The cancellations affect a wide range of entities, including local and state governments, universities, and companies. Notably, only a handful of projects in Republican-led states were impacted. Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) criticized the move, calling it a 'blatant attempt to punish the political opposition' amidst a government shutdown.

Among the cancelled projects are two West Coast hydrogen hubs funded by the 2021 infrastructure law. However, other selected hubs were not affected. The cancellations also include major hydrogen hub projects and nearly half of direct air capture hub grants, spanning various DOE offices.

The Trump administration's Department of Energy has cancelled over 300 clean energy grants, totaling $7.5 billion, with a significant impact on projects in Democratic-led states. The cancellations include carbon capture and hydrogen hub projects, affecting a diverse range of entities. The administration defends the decision as a means to protect taxpayer dollars and expand affordable, reliable energy, while critics argue it is politically motivated.

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