Switched On Renewables Bruised, Not Broken, by US Policy Shift
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Sep 4, 2025 Ethan Zindler, head of country and policy research at BloombergNEF and former climate counselor, joins Derrick Flakoll, senior policy associate, to dissect the consequences of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on the U.S. clean energy landscape. They delve into how this legislation stifles solar and wind projects while also affecting electric vehicle growth. The duo discusses the political whiplash impacting future investments and whether the situation could have been even worse for the renewable sector. Engaging insights illuminate the intersection of policy and energy innovation.
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Fuel Standards Left Toothless
- OBBBA gutted enforcement of CAFE fuel-economy rules by removing penalties, effectively neutering standards.
- The administration also challenges federal/state authority on emissions, creating legal uncertainty for California-style rules.
Manufacturing Credits Carry New Headaches
- Automakers kept manufacturing credits but face stricter sourcing and administrative tests for batteries and components.
- Complex retroactivity and sourcing rules could nullify expected benefits from licensing deals like Ford's with CATL.
Time Purchases Around The Credit Deadline
- Expect a surge in EV purchases before federal consumer credits expire on September 3rd.
- Wait three to six months after the credit ends to see how unsubsidized EV demand stabilizes.