Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens & Clean Energy Advocates Celebrate Federal Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund Investments in Georgia

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Thursday, October 3rd, 2024

Mayor Andre Dickens joined clean energy advocates and other local leaders to celebrate the impact of the federal Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund (GGRF) and the funding awarded to Georgia under its three major programs: Solar for All, the National Clean Investment Fund, and the Clean Communities Investment Accelerator. These initiatives, which were made possible thanks to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), are designed to reduce pollution, lower energy costs, and expand clean energy access to disadvantaged communities across Atlanta and beyond.

Speakers highlighted how these programs will mobilize private capital for clean energy projects, build the capacity of community lenders, and help expand cost-saving solar programs, particularly in low-income communities. The Solar for All funding, including $156 million allocated to Georgia, will help thousands of residents access affordable solar energy, while the National Clean Investment Fund and Clean Communities Investment Accelerator will support broader clean technology deployment and community lending capacity to further scale climate action.

City Council President Doug Shipman emphasized the economic development opportunities for Atlanta businesses. "Investments like the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund are a significant boost for businesses in Atlanta," said Shipman. "By expanding access to clean energy and supporting local clean technology initiatives, we are opening new doors for private sector investment, creating opportunities for small businesses to thrive, and ensuring that Atlanta is a leader in the clean energy economy. From community-owned solar projects to small business loans for fleet electrification, these programs will drive quality job creation, lower energy costs, and provide a foundation for long-term economic growth."

Aisha Bussey, Chief Business Officer, Capital Good Fund,emphasized cost savings for local households. "Solar for All is about making clean energy affordable for every family," said Bussey. "With this funding, we’ll be able to reduce energy bills by at least 20% for thousands of low-income households across Georgia. At a time when utility costs are rising, these savings will allow families to breathe a little easier, while also helping to build a more resilient future for all of us."

Adrienne Rice, Executive Director, Sustainable Georgia Futures, reflected on how these programs can help achieve environmental justice. "Low-income communities and communities of color have been on the frontlines of pollution and climate change for decades, and this is unfortunately reflected in the higher rates of illnesses like asthma and respiratory diseases, which are disproportionately higher in some of Georgia's most disadvantaged neighborhoods,” said Rice. "Thanks to the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and the $156 million Solar for All investment in Georgia, we are finally bringing the benefits of clean energy to those who need it most. This is a historic step toward a future where everyone has access to affordable, clean energy and a healthier environment."

Speakers closed by emphasizing the importance of continued federal support to expand clean energy access and ensure long-term environmental and economic benefits for all communities in Georgia.