Key Takeaways

• The White House’s proposed 2026 budget includes significant cuts to clean energy and climate programs, risking job losses and higher energy costs.
• Recent legislation could eliminate 1.6 million clean energy jobs and jeopardize over $5.5 billion in private investment across Montana.
• Congress is urged to support funding for essential energy initiatives to promote economic growth and ensure reliable, affordable power for residents.

Impact of Budget Cuts on Clean Energy

The recent shift in weather patterns in August has provided a refreshing change for residents, yet, meanwhile, the 2026 federal budget deliberations in Washington, D.C. pose serious threats to clean energy and climate initiatives. The proposed budget includes notable cuts that could hinder economic growth, increase energy costs, and weaken national security.

Notably, the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” is projected to eliminate 1.6 million clean energy jobs and reduce the nation’s electricity generation capacity by 220 gigawatts by 2035, equivalent to the current solar capacity in the country. Such reductions will likely lead to increased electricity prices for consumers.

Additionally, the new legislation seeks to reverse clean energy tax credits established in 2022 that have already attracted $2 billion in private investment across 12 energy and manufacturing facilities in Montana. A further $3.5 billion in announced investments across 35 more projects are now at risk, putting 47 Montana projects in jeopardy. This uncertainty threatens job stability, economic growth, and can lead to higher costs for families and businesses alike.

Clean energy sources, including wind, solar, and battery storage, are among the most affordable options available. As demand for electricity continues to rise—driven by advancements in AI and the expansion of data centers—these clean energy resources can help stabilize prices, enhance grid reliability, and significantly reduce emissions. They also create economic opportunities by attracting private investments and generating high-quality jobs in Montana.

In light of rising household energy bills, it is crucial for lawmakers such as Congressman Zinke, Congressman Downing, Senator Daines, and Senator Sheehy to reject harmful budget cuts. Instead, supportive, forward-thinking policies should be prioritized, allowing clean energy to thrive and ensuring reliable power for Montana residents.

As Congress moves to finalize the FY26 appropriations, it is essential to defend programs that mitigate extreme weather impacts, maintain U.S. energy leadership, and prepare the electrical grid for increasing demand. Cuts to critical programs at NOAA, NASA, and the Department of Energy risk stalling research and innovation while ultimately raising long-term costs for taxpayers.

Essential funding is urged for two key Department of Energy initiatives: the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) and the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). Both programs are pivotal for fostering innovation and ensuring energy dependability. The previous budget negotiations have significantly slashed funding for clean energy, and this current session provides a chance for lawmakers to amend that course, reinforcing clean energy efforts that resonate with the interests of Montanans.

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