National Association of Counties
On May 31, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) launched the new $3 million Interconnection Innovation e-Xchange (i2X) which aims to enhance grid interconnection to boost clean energy development by fostering partnerships among state and local governments, utilities, grid operators and other key stakeholders. Funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), the i2x program seeks to address the complicated patchwork of legal and regulatory structures guiding interconnection processes across the country by engaging a diverse range of stakeholders to advance innovative solutions to streamline grid interconnection procedures. Counties interested in participating in the i2x program can register here.
The i2X program is built around four principles, including:
By focusing on these areas, the i2X program aims to expedite clean energy development by simplifying grid integration procedures and timelines, which are often lengthy and complicated and can vary between regions, states and utility service areas. Streamlining grid integration processes can also help spur clean energy projects and enhance grid resiliency in disadvantaged communities, which have historically faced underinvestment in their grid infrastructure.
Local governments play a crucial role in responding to climate change and reducing national emissions levels through the deployment of clean energy among other initiatives. Many counties engage and partner with local utilities in energy planning, including utility-scale renewable energy projects, key regulatory issues, grid modernization and storage and energy assurance strategies. Intergovernmental and cross sector collaboration is critical to ensuring the development and deployment of accessible and affordable clean energy.
<p>Responsible for all matters pertaining to air, water, energy, and land use, including water resources/management, stormwater, pesticides, air quality standards, solid, hazardous, and nuclear waste handling, transport, and disposal,
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The IRA offers counties the opportunity to pursue clean energy initiatives and reduce emissions through new competitive grant programs, local resiliency investments and clean energy tax credits.
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