Coalition Sues EPA Over $7B Solar Grant Cancellation, Microsoft Invests in Japan's Solar Energy
A coalition of nonprofit groups, businesses, and unions has filed a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the cancellation of $7 billion worth of solar grants under the Trump Administration. The Biden administration had estimated that the program, known as the Solar for All initiative, could have provided solar energy access to 900,000 households if completed successfully.
The lawsuit, which began in October 2023, alleges that the EPA illegally canceled the grants without proper congressional approval. Meanwhile, Microsoft has shown support for renewable energy by partnering with Japan's Shizen Energy to buy 100 megawatts of solar energy capacity, investing $2.9 billion in Japan through 2026.
In another setback for renewable energy, the Energy Department has also canceled an additional $7.5 billion for renewable energy projects, primarily impacting states led by Democrats. Despite these challenges, renewable energy has surpassed coal in global energy generation for the first time, driven largely by growth in China and India. The Solar for All program was designed to lower energy costs for middle- to low-income families.
The lawsuit against the EPA seeks to reinstate the canceled solar grants, potentially providing solar energy access to hundreds of thousands of households. Meanwhile, Microsoft's investment in Japan's solar energy capacity demonstrates the growing interest and commitment to renewable energy from major corporations. The global shift towards renewable energy continues, despite political and economic hurdles.
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