February 2025 Edition

Antoine M. Thompson

CEO/Executive Director

GWRCCC

A Message from the

Executive Director

Message from the CEO & Executive Director

Our commitment to energy security, reducing dependence on foreign oil and minerals, and addressing pollution and its negative impacts on people is stronger than ever. The urgency for leadership and action—locally, regionally, and nationally—requires collaboration and teamwork. We need your active participation as a member of the team.

For 32 years, Clean Cities and Communities has led efforts to deploy clean technology initiatives in transportation, helping to transition our region and country from traditional gas and diesel to ethanol, biodiesel, renewable diesel, hydrogen, natural gas, and propane. This work has injected millions of dollars into our local economy, created and saved jobs, improved the air quality, and positively impacted public health by reducing missed school and workdays for children and adults. Like you, we recognize multiple paths to achieving a better climate and healthier environment, and leadership calls on us to act.

Join Us!

Don't miss the GWRCCC Opening Reception on February 26th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM!

Be sure to follow GWRCCC on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Lastly, remember to become a member or renew your membership this month at www.gwrccc.org/membership.

Please call the office at 202-671-1580 or email me at antoinethompson@gwrccc.org.

Sincerely,

Antoine M. Thompson

CEO/Executive Director

GWRCCC in the Community

Recap: Fleet Electrification Panel at the DC Auto Show

The Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition (GWRCCC), in collaboration with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (MWCOG), hosted an engaging panel discussion at the DC Auto Show; Developing a Successful Fleet Electrification Strategy.

The panel highlighted key strategies and best practices for transitioning fleets to electric vehicles, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovative solutions, and strategic planning. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in a dynamic Q&A session, promoting meaningful dialogue on the future of fleet electrification.

GWRCCC Fleet Coaching

Do you need to train your workforce on emission-reducing practices or transition to a clean energy fleet? We can help you! GWRCCC is offering 30 minutes of coaching for a limited number of fleets each month.

For more information, contact the GWRCCC office at (202) 671-1580.

Coffee & Conversations

Feb 8th

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Busboys & Poets Anacostia

2004 Martin Luther King Jr Ave SE

Washington, DC 20020

GWRCCC's Coffee & Conversations brings together industry leaders and community partners for engaging discussions on clean energy and sustainable transportation. Join us to network, share ideas, and spark solutions over coffee.

The Clean Energy & Transportation Industry Meeting

Feb 13th

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Hosted on Zoom

Join our Monthly Clean Energy Meeting for exciting updates and opportunities

from GWRCCC and local leaders!

Opening Reception

Feb 26th

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

899 North Capitol St NE

Washington, DC 20002

Join Us for GWRCCC's Opening Reception! Enjoy an evening of networking, membership intake, and inspiring insights from our board members and a special guest speaker as we drive the future of clean energy together.

GWRCCC 2025 Annual Conference

Oct 23rd

Martin's Crosswinds

7400 Greenway Center Dr

Greenbelt, MD 20770

The 2025 Annual Conference includes cutting-edge industry-specific sessions, an expo, the Awards Luncheon, a Networking Reception, and a Ride and Drive |Alternative Vehicle Showcase.

Sponsorship Opportunities are available.

We Need Your Input!

Help shape the 2025 GWRCCC Annual Conference! We’re seeking your input on topics you’d like to see discussed and speakers you’d love to hear from. Share your ideas and help us create an engaging, impactful event. Submit your recommendations today!

Topics & Panelist Recommendations Form

Collaboration Events!

TEP 2025 Summit

Feb 10-13th

6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

The Washington Plaza Hotel

10 Thomas Cir NW,

Washington, DC 20005

Join us at the Washington Plaza Hotel for the Energy Independence Summit 2025! This 19th annual event will bring together Clean Cities Coalitions, industry leaders, and policymakers to advance clean fuels and vehicles.

Climate Career Expo

Feb 19th

12:30 PM - 3:00 PM

Bowie State University Student Center

1400 Jericho Park Rd

Bowie, MD 20715

Discover job opportunities, paid internships, and graduate fellowships in fields like renewable energy, sustainability, and environmental protection. Connect with federal, state, and local employers committed to diversifying the green workforce. Don’t miss this chance to network, explore career paths, and contribute to a sustainable future!

ACT EXPO

April 28th - May 1st

Anaheim Convention Center

Join us at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo

Big News!

GWRCCC has been awarded a $689,772 DERA Grant to modernize municipal fleets and reduce harmful emissions. This initiative will help drive cleaner, more sustainable transportation solutions in our region.

Read Here!

Just For Fleets

Propane has been identified as an alternative fuel since 1992 after the Energy Policy Act. Its availability, low cost, and clean burning qualities made it appealing as a clean energy option. Fleet operators seeking to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions should turn to renewable propane, which has the same qualities as conventional propane, but with a carbon footprint that is four times lower. It is made from renewable feedstocks including vegetable oil, animal fats, and grease. The chemical composition of both fuels is the same, therefore expensive modifications are not necessary which makes the switch to renewables easier. The decreased maintenance and operation of propane vehicles over the course of their lifespan makes it a cost-effective option. Fleet managers have several options to ensure their vehicles are environmentally friendly with renewable propane being an efficient choice.

Become an Advocate for Clean Transportation!

Join GWRCCC in promoting clean, alternative transportation fuels for improved air quality and energy security. As a sponsor, your organization can further this mission, connect with like-minded partners, and access valuable resources. Click below for more details!

Sponsorship

PERSEPHONE Program to Revolutionize Sustainable Energy Production

The U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy (ARPA-E) has announced the PERSEPHONE program, a new funding opportunity aimed at developing transformative technologies for bioenergy crop genetic engineering. With a total of $15 million in funding, ARPA-E will award up to 7 projects with awards ranging from $250,000 to $4 million.

This program will support the development of advanced tools for engineering bioenergy crops, creating new genetic engineering technologies, and ensuring adoption through biocontainment strategies.

Application Deadline: March 4, 2025. Eligibility: Open to all entities. For more details and to apply, visit ARPA-E eXCHANGE.

DOE Awards Over $12 Million for Local Clean Energy Projects

The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded $12.62 million to 35 state, local, and Tribal governments under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program to enhance energy efficiency, lower energy costs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these grants will support initiatives such as fleet electrification, solar installations, and energy efficiency upgrades in low-income communities. The EECBG Program is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, aiming to advance environmental justice and accelerate the nation’s clean energy transition.

Enhance Grid Reliability with Advanced Energy Technologies

The Department of Energy's ARPA-E is offering up to $30 million in funding through the GRADIENTS program to improve grid reliability and integrate renewable energy systems. This funding supports technologies in flexible renewable generation, intelligent automatic relays, and real-time control co-design (RT-CCD). Projects aim to enhance grid resilience, reduce blackout risks, and lower renewable energy curtailment. Awards range from $2M to $5M. The deadline for applications is February 14, 2025. Submit proposals via ARPA-E eXCHANGE.

$7.2 Million Awarded to Improve Climate Projections for Extreme Weather

The Biden-Harris Administration has awarded $7.2 million to NOAA and research partners through the Inflation Reduction Act to improve climate projections for extreme weather events. This funding will support 13 projects aimed at advancing long-range climate predictions for tropical storms, heat extremes, precipitation, and other climate phenomena like El Niño. The initiative, Climate Futures, will help communities, businesses, and industries better prepare for future climate impacts by providing more accurate climate projections. The projects will enhance resilience to climate hazards and inform infrastructure planning.

Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has released a funding opportunity for Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas, aimed at supporting clean energy projects that benefit small communities with populations of 10,000 or fewer. This initiative seeks to lower energy costs, improve energy access, and enhance resilience in areas often burdened by higher energy expenses and fewer resources. Eligible projects may focus on various activities, including energy efficiency upgrades, transmission line improvements, and the development of microgrids. Interested applicants must submit a Concept Paper by 5:00 PM ET on February 27, 2025, to qualify for application consideration.

Maryland Clean Energy Loan Program Surpassing $3 Million Milestone for Energy Efficiency Upgrades

The Maryland Clean Energy Center announced that its Clean Energy Advantage (CEA) Loan Pilot Program has surpassed $3 million in financing, enabling homeowners to access loans up to $50,000 with credit scores as low as 580. With 0% interest for the first 24 months, the program aims to empower residents to invest in energy-efficient upgrades, significantly reducing energy costs and enhancing home comfort. The initiative supports over 300 Maryland homeowners, with funding available until December 31, 2025. CEA is administered in partnership with the Montgomery County Green Bank and aims to promote equitable access to clean energy resources while generating local job opportunities. For more information, visit cealoan.org.

EPA Awards $4.3 Billion for Community-Driven Climate Solutions

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced $4.3 billion in grants for 25 selected applications under the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants (CPRG) program. These funds will support state, local, and Tribal entities in 30 states to implement projects that reduce greenhouse gases, improve air quality, and promote environmental justice. The grants will target sectors such as transportation, electric power, buildings, industry, agriculture, and waste management, aiming to achieve significant emission reductions by 2030 and 2050. This initiative is part of the broader effort to accelerate America's clean energy transition.

North America's Energy Future at Risk: Read the Latest Insights

A recent report from the North American Electric Reliability Corp. (NERC) warns that more than half of North America faces potential energy shortfalls over the next decade. The combination of surging electricity demand, driven by data centers and increased electrification, along with slowing resource additions, poses a significant threat to grid reliability.

U.S. Department of Transportation Allocates $800 Million to Boost Sustainable Transit

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has announced $800 million in funding under the Low Carbon Transportation Materials Program, aimed at promoting the use of low-carbon construction materials in transportation projects. Supported by the Inflation Reduction Act, this initiative empowers state, local, and tribal governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to sustainable transit options. By prioritizing cleaner materials like low-carbon steel, concrete, and asphalt, the program aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to reducing the nation’s carbon footprint and advancing climate-friendly infrastructure development.

Check Out Our New Membership Portal – MemberPlanet!

If you don't already have an account, you will need to create a new one as this is a new portal. Click on the "Sign Up" button and enter your full name, email address, and other required information.

Don’t forget to renew or start your membership today. For questions, email Blake Showes, Kimberly Harden, or Antoine Thompson, or call (202) 671-1580.