The anticipation is high in Nevada as U.S. Secretary of Energy, Jennifer Granholm, gears up for her visit from January 30 to January 31, 2024. This crucial visit unfolds with a tour of the pioneering Allegiant Stadium, celebrated as the first NFL venue fully energized by renewables. Discussions with the Moapa Band of Paiutes promise to highlight indigenous leadership in harnessing solar energy. Granholm’s agenda also features the 2024 National Automobile Dealers Association Show, advancing the push for electric vehicle (EV) adoption and endorsing the President’s vision for a clean transport domain. The voyage across the Silver State is set to culminate with a rich dialogue involving U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen, U.S. Representative Dina Titus, and local union personnel.
Nevada’s Workforce Energized by Clean Power
In an uplifting revelation, energy sector jobs have employed over 59,200 Nevadans, with clean energy sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric dominating the state’s electric power generation employment landscape. Energy efficiency sectors provide sustenance to some 12,000 professionals. Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, Nevada is looking at a robust $2.7 billion investment projected for large-scale clean energy generation and energy storage by 2030.
Empowerment of Small Businesses Through Energy Savings
Reflecting the backbone of the state, Nevada’s 312,000 small businesses form a staggering 99.2% of its commercial presence, offering livelihood to 43% of the workforce. The Inflation Reduction Act aims to bolster this segment with energy efficiency improvements and the integration of economical solar installations and clean commercial vehicle fleets, paving the way for reduced operational costs.
Doubling Down on Clean Energy
Nevada is making headway with an impressive tally exceeding 5.5 GW of solar, wind, and energy storage, complemented by a significant nuclear contribution. The horizon is bright with plans to more than double clean energy capacity, empowering over 810,000 homes. Enacted tax incentives are expected to bring down solar and wind costs significantly over the next three decades, setting a precedent for an energized and cost-effective future.
Revving Up the Clean Transportation Infrastructure
The state proudly owns 36,900 registered EVs, with the potential for substantial savings on fueling and maintenance for electric truck and car drivers. The Inflation Reduction Act is recharging this sector with enticing incentives for new and pre-owned EVs, alongside a federal injection of over $8 million to expand Nevada’s charging network in 2024.
Investments for Nevada’s Bright Energy Future
The Investing in America Agenda has catalyzed over $141 million of federal funding into Nevada’s energy efficiency and grid resilience projects, including home appliance upgrades and grid fortification. Companies like Advanced Battery Technology and Lilac Solutions have received a combined $107 million for pioneering facilities and technological advancements. On the battery recycling frontier, state initiatives are becoming more productive thanks to DOE support.
Delivering Savings on Home Energy Bills to Nevadans
Nevadans have witnessed the deployment of more than $10 million enhancing over 700 households with energy-saving measures since 2015. The impact? A staggering energy save equal to powering additional 74,000 homes. The Home Energy Rebate program is poised to provide $96 million, granting low-income families relief on energy bills by approximately 28%.
Empowering Rural and Underserved Nevada Communities
Under the Justice40 Initiative, disadvantaged communities are poised to reap the benefits from numerous DOE programs, fostering equity and accelerating climate-friendly investments. The state’s visionary rural energy projects have garnered recognition, and with the support from USDA and DOE, Nevada is forging new paths in community-driven energy solutions.
Nevada’s journey toward a clean and prosperous energy future looks ever so promising with the collaborative efforts of federal support, indigenous leadership, and the intrinsic drive of its businesses and residents.
