Representational image. Credit: CanvaThe U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the selection of nine organizations to participate in the Regional Energy Democracy Initiative (REDI) Consortium, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering communities in Texas and Louisiana. The REDI Consortium will provide a framework for community collaboration while offering technical assistance and capacity building for coordinating, developing, and delivering the benefits of DOE-funded projects. The initiative is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to equity and justice, with a focus on communities disproportionately impacted by the energy system.
Empowering Communities for the Energy Transition
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm emphasized that REDI’s pilot program would empower communities at the forefront of the country’s energy transition, ensuring that Texas and Louisiana—states set to receive over $8 billion for carbon reduction and clean energy infrastructure projects—have the resources to shape the historic clean energy investments in their regions.
“REDI will help ensure that communities in Texas and Louisiana have the resources they need to steer clean energy investments in their backyards,” said Granholm.
REDI Consortium Goals and Objectives
The REDI Consortium aims to address the unique needs and priorities of local communities, ensuring that energy projects bring secure, resilient, and affordable energy to the region. The collaborative effort will build a foundation for energy democracy, giving communities a voice in shaping their energy future.
The nine selected organizations will play pivotal roles in supporting the goals of REDI:
Southern University and Agricultural Mechanical College will lead the consortium, coordinating activities, tracking project developments, and creating a regional benefits strategy with input from other members.
The Gulf States Renewable Industries Association and Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Foundation will focus on economic development, providing technical assistance to support community priorities and identifying relevant funding opportunities.
The Texas Climate Jobs Project will lead workforce development efforts, ensuring that local and underrepresented workers can access career opportunities in the clean energy sector.
Air Alliance Houston, Digital Workforce Academy, Micah Six Eight Mission, and Power Coalition for Equity and Justice will serve as technical assistance organizations, providing support to regional and local non-profits, conducting stakeholder engagement, and sharing information with diverse partners.
Integrated Minority Aids Network Inc. will provide legal support, reviewing community benefits and workforce agreements to ensure local communities benefit from DOE-funded projects.
A Collaborative Step Towards a Resilient Energy Future
The REDI Consortium represents a significant step toward a more resilient and equitable energy future for Texas and Louisiana. By fostering collaboration between stakeholders and empowering communities, REDI seeks to ensure that the benefits of energy projects are shared by all.
Managed by ENERGYWERX in partnership with the DOE, REDI is made possible through an innovative Partnership Intermediary Agreement. This agreement facilitates the rapid development, scaling, and deployment of clean energy solutions through collaboration with innovative organizations and non-traditional partners.
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