The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the selection of 14 projects to address critical clean energy supply chain vulnerabilities and grow domestic clean energy manufacturing in 12 states. The funding from the Advanced Energy Manufacturing and Recycling Grant Program will help revitalize communities affected by coal mine or coal power plant closures.   

Following the announcement, the BlueGreen Alliance released a statement from Executive Director Jason Walsh:   

“The Biden-Harris administration is committed to making sure no workers or communities are left behind as we switch to cleaner, cheaper sources of energy and this investment is proof of that. These investments will create jobs—many of them will be good-paying union jobs—in areas that have been hit hard by America’s energy transition. For example, the Sparkz facility in West Virginia has signed a neutrality agreement with the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) and will work with UMWA on providing training to coal workers. In addition, most of these projects have agreed to pursue Community Benefit Agreements, ensuring that workers and the community see the benefits of the investments being made.   

“While some politicians talk about standing up for coal workers and communities, the Biden-Harris administration is acting. These investments will help workers and people in communities across the country get back on their feet and build a better life for themselves and their families.”