Trump’s funding freeze halts solar program for low-income communities
President Donald Trump’s executive orders have put the $7 billion Solar For All Program on hold, leaving states and nonprofits scrambling to secure promised funds for expanding solar energy in disadvantaged communities.
Terry L. Jones reports for Floodlight.
In short:
- The Solar For All Program, funded under the Inflation Reduction Act, was designed to provide solar power to low-income households but is now paused under Trump’s spending freeze.
- Nonprofits and states that were awarded grants have received no direct communication from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and are unsure when or if funds will be disbursed.
- Legal challenges argue that the freeze violates federal law, with courts temporarily blocking the pause while litigation continues.
Key quote:
“We understand that all awardees’ ability to draw funds has been ‘suspended,’ but direct communication has been limited.”
— Wanda Heard, senior public relations and advocacy manager for GRID Alternatives
Why this matters:
The potential freezing of the Solar for All Program raises concerns about equitable access to clean energy, particularly for low-income communities. The program, designed to expand solar power adoption in underserved areas, plays a crucial role in reducing reliance on fossil fuels while lowering household energy costs. Delays or disruptions could leave families trapped with higher utility bills and more exposure to the harmful health effects of pollution from traditional energy sources.
From December: Trump administration unlikely to halt Solar for All rollout
