The US Department of Energy (DOE), as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, unveiled $70.8 million in funding to support federal partnerships with state and local governments. This funding will help small- and medium-sized manufacturers upgrade facilities, improve capabilities, and support sustainable, efficient manufacturing across industries.
The selected projects promote clean energy, enhance domestic manufacturing, and ensure federal investments benefit historically underinvested, environmentally challenged communities.
Retooling Vehicle Manufacturing Facilities
The DOE allocated $50 million to five states to upgrade automotive manufacturing for electric, hybrid, and fuel cell vehicles. This funding is part of the DOE’s broader $2 billion Domestic Automotive Manufacturing Conversion Grant program.
The states selected for funding and their respective allocations are Michigan, receiving $22,653,072; Indiana, with $10,793,685; Kentucky, which will receive $6,001,534; Tennessee, allocated $5,555,067; and Illinois, which will receive $4,996,639. These investments will modernize automotive manufacturing, ensuring competitiveness and alignment with the transition to cleaner, sustainable vehicle technologies.
Also read: US DOE Releases National Blueprint for Clean and Competitive Industrial Growth
Boosting Battery Recycling Across the US
In the second round of the Battery Recycling program, DOE selected seven states to negotiate awards totaling $11.5 million. This initiative is aimed at expanding the accessibility of battery recycling programs, reducing waste, and enhancing the nation’s recycling infrastructure. Recipients include Tennessee’s Department of Environment, Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy, and Washoe County, Nevada.
Other recipients are Erie County in New York, Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources, the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Solid Waste Agency in Iowa, and Allen County in Indiana. In collaboration with state and local governments, these projects will advance battery recycling, reduce waste, and increase national recycling capacity.
Also read: US DOE Announces $2.2 Billion Investment in Clean Hydrogen to Accelerate Renewable Energy Transition
Impact on Clean Energy and Workforce Development
Jennifer M, US Secretary of Energy said, “States and localities will guide America’s position as a leader in advancing a global clean energy transition, and the Biden-Harris Administration is ensuring they have the tools they need to succeed.”
She added, “The projects announced today cement this Administration’s state-based efforts to support the nation’s auto workforce and communities, all while strengthening domestic manufacturing and bolstering our energy security.”
Furthermore, these federal partnerships ensure climate, clean energy, and investment benefits reach marginalized communities, supporting equity, sustainability, and environmental justice.