September Energy, Sustainability, And Infrastructure Washington Update

Introduction

While August is typically a quiet month with Congress out of session, there were several significant developments in energy and environmental policy. The Department of Energy (DOE) rolled out plans for over $1 billion in funding to boost US research, production, and processing of critical minerals and rare earth materials. On Capitol Hill, lawmakers are backing proposals in the defense bill to strengthen the critical minerals supply chain and reduce reliance on imports. At the same time, the Trump administration is stepping up its shift away from renewables — canceling major solar and wind projects, tightening permit rules, and scrapping plans for offshore wind. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is also looking to undo the Greenhouse Gas Endangerment Finding, arguing that greenhouse gases don't directly harm public health. And on the personnel front, there was a wave of activity before the Senate left town to confirm political appointments at