Clean energy policies present both opportunities and challenges for energy justice. While these policies can drive equitable renewable deployment and address historical inequities, they may also inadvertently promote false solutions that reinforce existing power imbalances and systemic barriers. We conduct comprehensive state and federal policy evaluations to identify successful energy justice implementations and highlight areas for improvement. Through collaborative frameworks developed with our partners, we systematically analyze clean energy policies through an equity lens, equipping policymakers and advocates with the tools to advocate for equitable implementation of these policies.
Our frameworks and analysis ensure that the transition to renewable energy creates meaningful benefits for all communities.
Key Findings
The EPA’s $7 billion Solar for All program experienced significant disruption when the 2025 Reconciliation Law eliminated residential solar tax credits nearly a decade earlier than planned. Despite these federal policy changes, early implementation demonstrates that community-centered approaches and dedicated coordination can help energy justice initiatives endure political transitions. This policy brief examines the implementation challenges and successes of six diverse grantees in expanding solar access for low-income and disadvantaged communities.