EPA cuts Solar For All program, Benton Harbor affected
BENTON HARBOR, Mich. (WSBT) — The EPA’s “Solar for All” program, which supports solar development in low-income communities with millions in grants, has now been scrapped due to Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill.” This statewide solar program is affecting communities like Benton Harbor.
Last month, EGLE told WSBT22 that they would be providing millions to low-income communities across Michigan.
With the solar program grants, cities like Benton Harbor would have received solar installations at their city facilities and buildings, reducing homeowners’ water bills.
However, the “Big Beautiful Bill” eliminated the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, which supports the program with $7 billion in funding.
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin shared a statement on “X,” saying in part:
“But the bottom line again is this: EPA no longer has the authority to administer the program or the appropriated funds to keep this boondoggle alive,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.
Benton Harbor City Manager Alex Little said that he is disappointed in the change.
“Unfortunately, the impact is not good. We understand that the national administration does what it does, but it seems a little, both unfortunate and unfair, that it would adversely impact residents who already have solar and need so much,” said Benton Harbor City Manager Alex Little.
Other solar energy-advocates agreeing with Little, saying they won’t stop fighting for solar energy in all households.
“This is a huge step in the wrong direction. Local solar is local energy. We should be leaning in to local solar, community solar, rooftop solar, all of all of these initiatives to bring clean energy closer to people, making sure everybody’s able to benefit from their renewable energy transition so that nobody’s left behind,” said Zach Schalk of Solar United Neighbors.
Benton Harbor officials said that with these cuts, they currently have no plans for how it may come back in the near future — but emphasizing the need is still there.