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EPA Awards New Jersey $3 Million to Plan Innovative Climate Strategies and Build Clean Energy Economies
New Jersey has been awarded $3 million from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to plan innovative strategies to cut climate pollution and build clean energy economies across the state.
The funding is part of the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants program created by President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, and New Jersey is among the first states to receive planning grant funds. Later this year, the EPA will launch a competition for $4.6 billion in funding to implement projects and initiatives included in the plans. New Jersey has already met its 2020 greenhouse gas reduction goal years ahead of schedule and has multiple efforts underway to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The state plans to use these funds to expand clean energy infrastructure and build resilient communities statewide.
The planning process is being carried out in collaboration with municipalities across the state, with a focus on engaging overburdened communities that are most affected by climate change. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy has expressed his gratitude to the EPA and congressional delegation for prioritizing and supporting innovative climate action. The state's Commissioner of Environmental Protection, Shawn M. LaTourette, added that the program would help accelerate the state's initiatives, centered on planning and implementing measures that reduce emissions of climate pollutants, improve air quality and public health, and better serve communities.
According to Senator Cory Booker, the funding will help New Jersey plan for a low-carbon future by building more clean energy infrastructure and more resilient communities. Congressman Donald Norcross also commented on the funding, saying that it would help South Jersey harness the power of its offshore wind industry and create good-paying jobs. Congressman Andy Kim, who voted for the Inflation Reduction Act, believes that the investment will help combat climate change and transition to a greener, more sustainable economy and clean energy infrastructure. Congressman Josh Gottheimer believes the funding will help combat pollution, fight climate change, create jobs, and lower taxes.
Overall, the grant will provide support for updating foundational climate plans, accelerating clean energy goals, and building resilient communities across the state. With the impending launch of the competition for $4.6 billion in funding to implement projects and initiatives included in the plans, New Jersey is well-positioned to become a national climate leader and a model for other states searching for ways to make the most out of the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law resources.
More information on the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants
CPRG Planning Grant Program Guidances
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