Forging Ahead in Clean Energy Amid Federal Headwinds
Over the last few weeks, I’ve had numerous conversations with people who are deeply concerned about the future of clean energy and decarbonization policy. The incoming administration has been clear about its intent to roll back key funding for clean energy and climate tech, as well as to weaken decarbonization policies. I share these concerns. However, even in the face of potential federal setbacks, there are meaningful opportunities to pivot and sustain progress. By leaning into state-level efforts, innovative storytelling, and market-driven solutions, we can not only hold the line but accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy.
Where We’ve Been and Where We Stand
It’s important to reflect on how far we’ve come. In January 2021, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) didn’t exist. At that time, we weren’t even sure Build Back Better would materialize. Fast-forward to today: 93% of the Environmental Protection Agency’s IRA funds have been deployed. These investments have sparked measurable progress across sectors and geographies.
The Importance of Coupling Decarbonization with Economic Growth
Historically, the most significant drops in U.S. greenhouse gas emissions have coincided with economic downturns, such as the 2008 financial crisis and the 2020 COVID-19 recession. But lasting progress cannot hinge on economic contractions. That’s why the IIJA and IRA prioritized investments that couple economic growth with decarbonization. These critical programs aim to embed prosperity into the clean energy transition, and as a result, they’ve created fertile ground for success stories that showcase this synergy.
US GHG Emissions Have Declined Over Two Decades
Total emissions peaked in 2007. Net emissions, which subtract what's absorbed by natural systems, peaked in 2004.
Sources: Rhodium Group, EPA | Note: 2024 data is preliminary
I’m closely monitoring the release data, research, and outcomes that can be leveraged to craft narratives illustrating how clean energy is a force for economic growth. These stories can help drive enthusiasm for the decarbonization marketplace, rallying stakeholders (and shareholders), and countering resistance.
A Shift in Advocacy: From Policy to Marketplace Sentiment
The advocacy sector often focuses on large-scale government policies and funding because they are unparalleled force multipliers. But as we face challenges at the federal level, we must also adapt. Advocacy efforts should extend beyond legislative wins to shaping public sentiment around the decarbonization marketplace itself.
This is particularly critical in an asymmetrical media landscape. Sentiment-driven storytelling can be a powerful tool not just for influencing policymakers but also for inspiring cultural shifts. Take electric vehicles (EVs) as an example. Despite backlash, EV sales continue to grow, albeit at a slower rate than 2021. Advocates might consider partnering with the auto industry to create compelling content that excites new audiences—like podcasts for car enthusiasts or media campaigns highlighting the Formula E racing league. Imagine if Formula E became as culturally resonant as Formula 1, bolstered by a Netflix-style series like Drive to Survive. Such cultural shifts could normalize EVs, attract new buyers, and amplify market growth.
State and Local Leadership
Much of the recent progress in decarbonization policy and marketplace across the country has occurred on the state level. From cap-and-trade in Washington state, to a clean energy bill in North Carolina, to 100% clean energy standards in Minnesota and Michigan, coalitions of grassroots leaders, local stakeholders, local governments and the private sector have developed leadership capacity to ensure durable progress. In the face of obstacles on the federal level, this coalition and leadership capacity is well-positioned to embrace opportunities to collaborate on decarbonization marketplace solutions that drive economic growth in states.
Innovative Thinking for a Resilient Future
These ideas may feel unconventional in the advocacy world, where we often focus on the traditional levers of influence. But they demonstrate a way of thinking that seeks out alternative force multipliers. By embracing state and local opportunities, harnessing storytelling, and fostering market enthusiasm, we can continue to advance the clean energy transition—even in the face of federal policy headwinds.
The road ahead is not without challenges. Yet, when we consider the progress made since 2020, it’s clear we’re better positioned than we may have imagined. By thinking creatively and acting boldly, we can sustain momentum, forge new paths, and inspire the next wave of champions for clean energy and decarbonization.
Ready to navigate federal challenges, amplify your clean energy initiatives, or build strategies to drive impactful change?