What New Climate Laws Could Mean for Louisiana
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By now you've probably heard the amazing news that climate laws like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have made billions of dollars in incentives available for individuals, families, businesses, and communities to embrace clean energy and other practical climate solutions in our homes, workplaces, and more.
But what exactly does that mean for Louisiana?
Better roads and bridges? Check.
Easier, more affordable access to clean energy? Check.
Good-paying jobs and so much more? Check and check.
These new laws help lower Americans’ energy costs by assuring more (clean!) energy is produced in the US and rewards them for investing in home energy efficiency.
With billions available, Louisianans can lead the charge toward the net-zero future we need to assure the worst impacts of the climate crisis never come to pass.
Cleaner Energy Now
The IRA offers numerous rebates, tax credits, and grant opportunities to electrify the lives and improve the homes of those living in Louisiana.
The legislation includes rebate opportunities to install new electric appliances and more – rebates that cover 50% all the way to 100% of the cost of super-efficient heat pumps, water heaters, clothes dryers, and electric stoves and ovens.
There are also tax credits to cover as much as 30% of the costs to install solar panels and battery storage systems in homes just like yours. Similarly, community solar projects will see as much as a 30% credit.
In addition, the IRA is here to help Louisianans who are ready to make the switch to electric vehicles. With upfront discounts up to $7,500 for new EVs and $4,000 for used EVs, the legislation helps make these newer, cleaner technologies available to so many more people – all the while saving even more money on gas and other expenses down the line.
Rural Renewal
Rural communities across the state are set to benefit from targeted investments in both the IRA and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“The Inflation Reduction Act supports climate-smart agriculture practices, which will help Louisiana’s 27,400 farms lead on climate solutions and reward their stewardship. Electric cooperatives, which serve about 430,000 homes, businesses, and other customers in Louisiana, will for the first time be eligible for direct-pay clean energy tax credits,” the White House has announced. “And this legislation dedicates investments for rural electric cooperatives to boost resiliency, reliability, and affordability, including through clean energy and energy efficiency upgrades.”
At the same time, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is set to expand broadband internet access across the state.
Presently, 14% of Louisianans live in areas where there is no functioning broadband infrastructure and 60% of Louisianans live in areas where there is only one broadband internet provider. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework is looking to change that with a $65 billion investment to “bring universal, reliable, highspeed, and affordable coverage to every family in America.”
Better, Safer Roads and Bridges
The American Society of Civil Engineers gave Louisiana a D+ grade on its infrastructure report card – not surprising given there are 1,634 bridges and over 3,411 miles of highway in poor condition across the state. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is looking to change that.
“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework will devote more than $312 billion to transform our nation’s transportation infrastructure and make it more resilient, including $110 billion for roads, bridges, and major projects,” according to the White House.
Good-Paying Jobs
The 28,094 Louisianans working in clean energy can expect an influx of new colleagues thanks to the IRA. The legislation is set to bring an estimated $5 billion of investment in large-scale clean power generation and storage to Louisiana between now and 2030.
That means jobs. Lots of them. Good-paying ones too. The IRA also includes bonuses for businesses that pay a prevailing wage!
Make New Climate Laws Work for You
If you’re ready to learn how you can take advantage of the funding opportunities offered by these laws, join us this April for our free online training, Power Up: From Acts to Action.
We’ll help take the guesswork out of these historic laws and make them work for you, so you can bring real climate solutions to your family and neighborhood.
You’ll get the chance to learn from former Vice President Al Gore and field-leading experts why the IRA and IIJA are important, how to access the funding you need, and how these laws will make life better for families and neighborhoods across Louisiana.
Ready to take the next step in your advocacy journey? Learn more and register today.