Republican Legislation Ends Renewable Support
A new Republican-backed law, signed by President Trump, eliminates federal tax credits for wind and solar projects. As a result, utilities are turning back to fossil fuels, which is expected to raise electricity prices nationwide.
Sharpest Increases in Red States
Analysts predict Republican-leaning states like Missouri, Kentucky, and Texas will experience the largest spikes in household energy costs. Annual bills in these regions could rise by more than $600 by 2035, putting a strain on family budgets.
Federal Assistance Slashed
The law also cuts key programs such as LIHEAP, which helps low-income families pay their utility bills. Millions more Americans will be at risk of energy insecurity, particularly during extreme weather events and heatwaves.
The Broader Consequences
Access to affordable energy is a matter of survival, especially as extreme heat intensifies. Dismantling renewable support and cutting assistance programs is likely to widen existing health and economic gaps. Communities of color, low-income families, and the elderly are particularly exposed, often living in homes poorly equipped to handle heat.
Widening Disparities in Energy Security
As energy costs soar, the gap between those who can comfortably afford electricity and those at risk of having their power cut off will likely widen. Lower-income families could be forced to make impossible choices between paying their bills and meeting other basic needs, increasing vulnerability during heatwaves and cold snaps.
The Urgency of Sustainable Solutions
These developments underscore the need for sustainable, affordable energy solutions across the U.S. Supporting renewables and energy assistance programs can help shield communities from volatile prices, while also reducing carbon emissions and improving public health as climate change accelerates.
