The overlooked IRA Fund boosting climate projects

illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on TIME News or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF), established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), has committed $27 billion to support local climate and clean energy projects
• These projects aim to bring renewable energy and energy efficiency to underserved U.S. communities, such as low-income areas and communities of color

🔭 The context: The GGRF funds will accelerate projects like solar installations and energy efficiency improvements, focusing on mature technologies that directly benefit local communities
• It seeks to drive private-sector investment in clean energy by offering financial innovation tools like loans and guarantees

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: By targeting communities that have been historically ignored in the clean energy transition, the GGRF addresses environmental justice and helps reduce pollution in areas most impacted by climate change
• This can also catalyze broader climate financing, crucial for scaling renewable energy solutions

⏭️ What's next: The program aims to leverage public funds to attract private investment at a 7:1 ratio, proving that clean energy projects are viable for mainstream investors
• This could unlock trillions in capital for the global energy transition

💬 One quote: “It’s a vote of confidence in American communities and the American people,” said Jahi Wise, former GGRF program lead

📈 One stat: GRID Alternatives has already installed no-cost solar for over 29,000 low-income households in underserved U.S. communities

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