States Challenge Trump Administration Over Termination of Solar for All Program

In a bold move to defend green energy initiatives, a coalition of 22 states has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging the abrupt termination of the $7 billion Solar for All program.

 

This program was designed to expand solar energy access to low-income communities, aiming to reduce energy costs and promote environmental justice.

 

California Attorney General Rob Bonta announced the legal action, emphasizing the significant impact on his state.

 

California stands to lose approximately $250 million in federal funds earmarked for solar projects in disadvantaged areas.

 

“The administration’s decision to cancel this program is a direct attack on our efforts to provide clean energy solutions to those who need it most,” Bonta stated.

 

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes highlighted the adverse effects on her state, noting that over 11,000 low-income households in Arizona will face a 20% increase in energy bills due to the loss of $156 million in funding.

 

“Without this program, clean energy will be out of reach for many Arizonans,” Mayes remarked.

 

The lawsuit contends that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), under Administrator Lee Zeldin, unlawfully terminated the program, violating administrative law and the constitutional separation of powers.

 

The EPA rescinded the funds in August, following the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, with Zeldin labeling the program a “boondoggle.”

 

However, the plaintiffs argue that the cancellation undermines efforts to reduce energy costs and combat climate change.

 

Harris County, Texas, has also filed a separate lawsuit against the EPA after losing nearly $250 million in funding designated for solar energy projects.

 

The county emphasized the importance of these funds in providing affordable solar power to low-income families and creating green jobs.

 

“The administration is breaking the law to score political points, and Harris County residents shouldn’t have to pay that price,” said Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee.

 

Other states joining the lawsuit include Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia.

 

This legal action reflects a broader resistance by Democratic attorneys general to the administration’s policies affecting environmental and energy initiatives.

 

The plaintiffs seek to reinstate the Solar for All program and recover the funds necessary to continue their green energy projects.

 

As the legal battle unfolds, the outcome will have significant implications for the future of green jobs and renewable energy access in low-income communities across the nation.

 

The commitment of these states to challenge the administration underscores the importance of sustainable energy solutions in addressing both economic and environmental concerns.