US House Passes $57.3 Billion Energy and Water Spending Bill, Targets Clean Energy Funding
The House Appropriations Committee approved a $57.3 billion energy and water spending bill, including $48.8 billion for the Department of Energy, but proposed rescinding $5.1 billion in unobligated funds from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law programs supporting clean hydrogen, direct air capture, and CO2 transport. These funds would be redirected to support advanced nuclear reactor demonstration, with the Senate expected to challenge many of these cuts and policy changes in the coming weeks.[1]
Department of the Interior Tightens Permitting and Ends Fee Discounts for Wind and Solar Projects
The Department of the Interior announced that all wind and solar projects now require personal sign-off from the Interior Secretary for permits, while longstanding right-of-way and capacity fee discounts for these projects have been eliminated. The agency will review all regulations within 45 days to address any preferential treatment for renewables over dispatchable energy sources, potentially raising costs and regulatory hurdles for new projects.[1]
Trump Administration Moves to Overturn EPA Endangerment Finding on Greenhouse Gases
The Trump administration announced plans to rescind the 2009 EPA “endangerment finding” that underpins current federal greenhouse gas regulations, potentially removing limits on emissions from vehicles, factories, and power plants. The move is supported by a new Department of Energy report that critics claim contains misleading information about climate risks and the societal benefits of fossil fuels.[5]
Department of Defense Commits Over $1 Billion to US Rare Earth Magnet Supply Chain
The Department of Defense announced a public-private partnership with MP Materials, committing over $900 million to expand domestic rare earth magnet production, including $400 million in equity investment, a potential $350 million in additional equity, and a $150 million loan for heavy rare earth processing. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on China, establish new manufacturing sites, and impose strict national security controls on foreign transactions.[1]
NYSERDA Opens 2026 Voluntary Tier 1 REC Pre-Sale to Support Renewable Projects
The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) launched the 2026 Voluntary Tier 1 Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) Pre-Sale, available from July 30 to August 13, 2025, for eligible commercial, industrial, and institutional buyers. The program allows participants to secure forward-priced renewable attributes from solar, wind, and hydro projects in New York, aiding compliance and sustainability planning.[4]
Queensland Achieves Record Wind and Solar Share Despite Policy Headwinds
Queensland, Australia, set a new record for wind and solar generation share, marking