Source: EnergyPortal.eu
U.S. EPA Announces $11 Million Grant Funding for Research on Energy Transitions in Underserved Communities
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced $11 million in grant funding to 11 institutions for research on the drivers and environmental impacts of energy transitions in underserved and Tribal communities. The research aims to address climate change and environmental justice issues, which are key priorities for the EPA.
The shift away from fossil-based energy systems in energy and transportation is happening rapidly. These changes are important for mitigating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, they also present both challenges and opportunities to improve environmental and public health, particularly for underserved communities.
The research funded by these grants will focus on understanding the environmental impacts of shifting energy and transportation systems on underserved and Tribal communities. It will also explore the factors that drive decisions to adopt renewable energy sources, energy-efficient technologies, and new transportation options. The projects will engage with communities and Tribes, learning from their experiences and expertise to better meet their needs.
The goal of this research is to build a scientific foundation for the development of effective policies and programs that support a sustainable transition to renewable and low-carbon energy systems. By engaging with communities and understanding their perspectives, the research aims to ensure that the transition is just and equitable.
The grant recipients include institutions such as the University of Massachusetts Amherst, University of Maine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Research Triangle Institute, Green Umbrella, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Michigan Technological University, The Ohio State University, University of California Los Angeles, Arizona State University, and Portland State University.
These institutions will be working on a range of projects, from studying the environmental benefits of shifting to electric energy sources in households to assessing the air quality and health implications of transitioning to alternative transportation and electricity generation. The research will provide valuable insights into the impacts of energy transitions on underserved communities and inform future decision-making.
More information about the funded grant recipients and EPA research grants can be found on the EPA website.
