In the States
CO, HI, ID, NM, NV, WY: Western governors representing six states and territories expressed their united support for streamlining climate solutions during the annual meeting of the Western Governors' Association (WGA). Colorado Governor Jared Polis highlighted the shared challenges faced by Western states, emphasizing that issues like wildfires and climate change do not recognize political boundaries. “We have a lot more that unites us than what divides us, and that’s sometimes challenging in this day and age, with people peddling division on both sides of the aisle,” Governor Polis said. The governors emphasized their commitment to working together and focusing on solutions rather than politics. Governor Polis discussed initiatives like the development of low-carbon geothermal energy and the potential for a federally backed hydrogen hub in multiple states. The governors also urged the Environmental Protection Agency to facilitate cleaner water, air, and grid solutions while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. Western governors highlight ‘common commitment’ to advancing regional climate solutions —The Hill
GA: Governor Brian Kemp announced that NVH Korea, a foreign automotive company, will invest $72 million and create over 160 new jobs in Henry County, Georgia. The company will establish a facility in Locust Grove at Gardner Logistics Park to produce EV battery components. Operations are expected to begin in the second quarter of next year. NVH Korea specializes in automotive noise, vibration, and heat control parts and currently operates in Korea, Europe, and India. Governor Kemp expressed confidence in Georgia's reliable infrastructure network and exceptional workforce, stating, "Thanks to our reliable infrastructure network connecting partners all over the world and great workforce, job creators can find success in every community in our state." The development is expected to benefit the local community by attracting more people, boosting businesses, and providing opportunities for residents. EV battery facility to open in Henry Co., bringing $72M investment, governor says—Atlanta News First
MI: Michigan is poised for significant climate action as Democrats now hold control of the governor's office and both legislative chambers. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has put forward a plan called "MI Healthy Climate," which sets a target for the state to generate all its electricity from carbon-free sources like solar and wind by 2035. The proposal also includes stricter energy efficiency standards and aims to phase out coal-fired power plants by 2030. While other states have implemented clean energy requirements, Michigan's proposed timeline is among the most aggressive. Supporters of the plan argue that solar and wind energy proved their reliability during emergencies like the recent Texas heatwave. Michigan's transition to clean energy is seen by the Governor as an opportunity for job creation and economic growth. “People really understand and see that climate change is having a costly and dangerous impact on our lives,” Governor Whitmer said. However, Republican lawmakers and industry groups, including automakers, oppose the legislation, citing concerns about the reliability of renewable energy sources. A Climate Laggard in America’s Industrial Heartland Has a Plan to Change, Fast—NY Times
SC: The Southern Carolina region is witnessing remarkable growth in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, contributing significantly to South Carolina's economic development. Governor Henry McMaster highlighted this trend, stating, "EV-related companies account for more than half of the $10.27 billion in economic development South Carolina announced last year. That speaks to our state's great potential to lead in this sector." Governor McMaster also announced the launch of scpowersev.com, a website promoting South Carolina's EV industry and providing information on incentives and charging station locations. Additionally, companies like TICO and SkyDrive have chosen the Southern Carolina region for their EV-related operations, further driving growth and job creation. Southern Carolina Region is sparking with electric power projects—Bluffton Today
National
Ford Motor and its battery manufacturing partner, SK On, have secured a $9.2 billion loan from the Department of Energy to construct three battery factories in Kentucky and Tennessee. This loan marks the Biden administration's largest financial commitment towards establishing an electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing network in the United States. The factories, scheduled to commence production in 2025, will be operated by BlueOval SK, a joint venture between Ford and SK On, and will generate employment opportunities for 7,500 people. The aim is to advance President Biden's goal of having half of all new cars sold in the US be electric by the end of the decade. The loan will be provided through the Energy Department's Loan Programs Office, which supports impactful and experimental projects with flexible financing. Ford’s Battery Joint Venture to Get $9.2 Billion Government Loan—NY Times