The Environmental Protection Agency announced today that Harris County and a coalition of counties, cities, and organizations from across the state will receive $249M to expand access to solar power in low-income communities and create access to good-paying, clean energy jobs across the state.
The grant comes through the EPA’s highly competitive Solar For All program that is funded by the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund created by the Inflation Reduction Act and is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s efforts to accelerate investments in clean energy and ensure those investments flow to disadvantaged communities that are marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution.
“I am incredibly grateful to the EPA and Biden-Harris Administration for this opportunity to combat climate change through investments in solar power that lower energy costs and reduce carbon pollution in our frontline communities,” said Commissioner Rodney Ellis.
Harris County, through its Office of Sustainability led by Director Lisa Lin, served as lead applicant for a statewide coalition of municipalities, labor organizations, and community-based organizations committed to expanding clean power and good jobs in low-income communities. The Harris County based initiative will include residential rooftop and community solar projects that will foster resiliency and help lower energy costs for low-income communities. The program will also create paths to good-paying jobs by providing workforce training to serve low-income and disadvantaged residents and supporting minority-and women-owned businesses.
“Solar for All is what a just energy transition is all about—we don’t leave communities behind or shut off from opportunities. What we do at the local level to fight climate change and equitably advance access to clean energy makes a difference. I am so proud of Harris County stepping up to lead this coalition—it’s a powerful example of Texans working together to confront one of the major challenges of our time through a clear commitment to equity, justice and opportunity for all,” Commissioner Ellis said.
This award could not have come sooner. According to a 2024 report from the Texas Energy Poverty Research Institute, 40 percent of low- to moderate-income households in Texas can’t afford their energy costs.
The findings include:
- 29% of respondents reported reduced spending on food to meet their electricity needs.
- Approximately 27% of respondents across the state resort to completely shutting off their air conditioning during summer months to alleviate costs.
“Texans are struggling every day to keep the lights on and making hard choices between groceries, medication, and other basic needs because of rising energy costs in a state that has prioritized corporate profits over affordable, reliable energy that people need to live and thrive. Solar for All is going to help us power and empower the lives of everyday Texans who deserve better,” Commissioner Ellis said.