WASHINGTON – The U.S House is poised to pass the Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act, which includes the potential for funding increases to important energy efficiency programs; solar energy development for low-income communities; research in energy storage and provisions to address environmental justice issues. It also includes a phase-out of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a greenhouse gas that can be hundreds to thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide.
Statement from Sandra Purohit, E2 Director of Federal Advocacy:
“This legislation includes important foundational steps to support a clean economy and address climate change.
“It’s unfortunate, though, that Congress missed yet another opportunity to help get clean energy workers back on the job today by not addressing the dire need for a COVID-19-related stimulus for clean energy.
“Congress should pass a strong Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act and find a path forward for clean energy stimulus.”
Statement from Mark Steftenagel, founder and CEO of Chicago-based Whitney Architects and an E2 chapter director :
“As an architect and business owner, I know we must transition away from HFCs as soon as possible. Not only will the cost of climate change be immense to our economy, but this transition positions us to be a leader in innovation and job creation at a time when we need it most. The sooner we can make this change the more our economy and customers will benefit.”
In March, more than 200 architects and engineers signed this letter in support of the legislative effort to phase-down HFCs.
For more information and interview requests, contact Sandra Purohit at [email protected]