Biden bets big on climate programs with 4 American Rescue Plan regional challenge winners

A total of 21 winners will receive between $25 million and $65 million per group to "execute transformational projects and revitalize local industries," according to the White House. That includes projects aimed at fighting the climate crisis. Of the 21 groups selected, at least four will receive funding that could play a crucial role in transitioning to renewables, leading the way in electric vehicle manufacturing, green hydrogen development, and accelerating battery production and innovation.

The goal of the American Rescue Plan’s regional challenge is to not only innovate across industries but to “train a whole new generation of workers,” President Biden said during a Friday event. For the New Energy New York coalition, the $63.7 million they will receive in grants is crucial for New York’s Southern Tier as it looks to become a leader in lithium battery development. The funding will create a facility known as the Battery-NY Center, which will provide testing, certification, and scale-up capacity for new products and companies,” according to a press release.