Statement of Nathaniel Keohane
President, Center for Climate and Energy Solutions

November 6, 2021

On House passage of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework:

“The passage of the bipartisan infrastructure package represents an initial down payment on climate action that would make key investments in the resilience and long-term prosperity of our communities. However, far more is needed, and we urge Congress to pass the Build Back Better Act, which would be the most meaningful action the United States has ever taken to address climate change. As U.S. delegates convene with global partners at COP26, the urgency of addressing the climate crisis has never been more clear.

“The $555 billion Build Back Better climate investment would drive renewable deployment and development of carbon capture, hydrogen, and other clean energy technology through tax credits and the direct pay provisions that ensure greater value from them. While tax credits will be the workhorse, the legislation would also accelerate the transition with tools such as a national ‘green bank’ and help manage climate risk and extreme weather impacts, among a cavalcade of climate priorities. In total, these provisions would represent real progress and begin to transform the economy to be ready for the net-zero future and economic opportunities it will create. Further, a price on carbon would be a meaningful addition to the Build Back Better framework that would not only drive necessary emission reductions, but also leverage the low-carbon advantage of domestic industries. Through the Build Back Better Act, Congress has an historic opportunity to lay the foundation for a modern, sustainable, and net-zero economy. ”

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To reach a C2ES expert, contact Alec Gerlach at press@c2es.org.

About C2ES: The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions (C2ES) is an independent, nonpartisan, nonprofit organization working to forge practical solutions to climate change. Our mission is to advance strong policy and action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote clean energy, and strengthen resilience to climate impacts. Learn more at www.c2es.org.

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