The Trump administration is reportedly contemplating an additional $12 billion reduction in funding for various clean energy initiatives. This move extends beyond prior announcements and reflects a broader trend of diminishing support for clean energy.
Expanded Cuts to Energy Projects
Sources revealed a detailed list of targeted projects which is being referred to informally as a “kill list.” This list signals a significant escalation in the administration’s ongoing campaign against clean energy initiatives.
Impact of the Government Shutdown
The potential cuts are also indicative of how the current government shutdown is being used to further the Trump administration’s conservative policy objectives. This approach marks a pivot from the previous administration, which actively promoted green energy solutions aimed at tackling climate change.
- The proposed list features high-impact projects related to carbon removal and clean hydrogen production.
- Several projects included had received approval from the Department of Energy (DOE) during the Biden administration.
- Major oil and gas entities, such as Chevron and Occidental, are involved in these initiatives.
Overall Funding Cuts
Combined with prior announcements, the total amount of funding targeted for cancellation has reached almost $24 billion. This includes a recent past reduction and earlier cuts made in May.
Future Uncertainty
Currently, it remains unclear when or if these proposed cuts will be fully implemented. Observers speculate that Trump may use them as leverage in negotiations regarding the ongoing government shutdown.
As discussions continue, the US Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is also contemplating withholding back pay from furloughed federal workers, adding pressure to the current situation.
