Trump DOE Cancels $720M in Manufacturing Grants, Impacting Battery and Energy Tech

Trump DOE Confirms Cancellation of Over $700M in Manufacturing Grants The Department of Energy (DOE) has confirmed that it is canceling over $720 million worth of manufacturing grants, affecting companies working on battery materials, lithium-ion battery recycling, and super-insulating windows. The decision was made by Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who has been reviewing contracts awarded during the Biden administration. According to Ben Dietderich, a DOE spokesperson, the projects were canceled because they failed to meet milestones and did not adequately advance the nation's energy needs. "We are committed to investing in innovative technologies that can help us transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future," Dietderich said. "Unfortunately, these projects did not live up to their promise." The grants were authorized by Congress as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021 and awarded to companies between 2023 and 2024. Three startups, including Ascend Elements, which has been refining a recycling technology that can turn manufacturing waste and end-of-life batteries into materials required for lithium-ion battery production, are among those affected. The cancellation of these grants raises questions about the effectiveness of government investment in clean energy technologies. "This decision is a setback for companies working on innovative solutions to address climate change," said an industry expert, who wished to remain anonymous. "It's unclear what criteria were used to determine which projects would be canceled." Background research reveals that the Trump administration had previously used grants awarded between Election Day and Inauguration Day as justification for canceling awards. However, this latest decision affects companies selected for grants well before the 2024 presidential election. The cancellation of these grants has significant implications for the clean energy sector. "This decision will likely have a chilling effect on innovation in the industry," said another expert. "Companies may be less willing to invest in research and development if they fear that their projects can be canceled at any time." As the DOE continues to review its contracts, it remains unclear what the future holds for these affected companies. However, one thing is certain: the cancellation of these grants highlights the need for more effective government investment in clean energy technologies. Additional Background The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law authorized over $1 billion in funding for clean energy projects, including manufacturing grants. The law aimed to promote innovation and job creation in the sector while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Next Developments The DOE has not announced any plans to review or revise its contract cancellation process. However, industry experts predict that this decision will have far-reaching implications for the clean energy sector. Quotes "We are committed to investing in innovative technologies that can help us transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future." - Ben Dietderich, DOE spokesperson "This decision is a setback for companies working on innovative solutions to address climate change." - Industry expert (anonymous) "This decision will likely have a chilling effect on innovation in the industry." - Another industry expert *Reporting by Techcrunch.*