The United States has set an ambitious new climate target under President Joe Biden, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 61-66% by 2035 compared to 2005 levels. This builds on the nation’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 as part of the Paris Agreement.
Transforming the U.S. Economy
The climate strategy leverages landmark federal investments from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), along with private-sector innovation. It also emphasizes partnerships with state, Tribal, and local governments.
Key goals of the plan include creating millions of union jobs, reducing energy costs for Americans, and promoting environmental justice. “This target sets a clear path to achieve a clean energy economy while creating millions of good-paying union jobs and advancing environmental justice,” the administration said.
Clean Energy Progress
Since 2021, the U.S. has catalyzed over $450 billion in private-sector clean energy investments:
- Arizona: $120 billion, including a $5.5 billion EV battery facility.
- Georgia: $40 billion, featuring a $2.5 billion solar panel plant expansion.
- California: $45 billion, with a $4 billion lithium-ion battery factory.
Critical Sectors Driving the Transition
The plan outlines progress in renewable energy, battery storage, transportation, and energy efficiency:
- Renewable Energy: Utility-scale solar and wind are now as cost-effective as fossil fuels.
- Battery Storage: Costs have dropped 89% since 2010, enabling large-scale grid storage.
- Transportation: EV sales are surging, supported by federal standards and falling costs.
- Energy Efficiency: New standards will save households $100 annually and cut 2 billion metric tons of emissions.
Community-Centered Approach
The administration is committed to ensuring the benefits of the clean energy transition reach all Americans:
- Training workers for clean energy jobs.
- Expanding infrastructure in disadvantaged areas.
- Partnering with Tribal nations on sustainability goals.
Takeaway
President Biden’s 2035 climate target represents a transformative step toward decarbonization and clean energy leadership. By aligning innovation, investment, and equity, the U.S. is positioning itself at the forefront of the global clean energy economy.
| Find out more here. |
