U.S. Energy

Helping cities, states, corporations, utilities and other key players in the U.S. power system drive forward a clean, abundant, affordable and reliable energy future.

Topic

Energy

U.S. Energy is part of the WRI Polsky Center for the Global Energy Transition.

In the United States, the WRI Polsky Energy Center helps states, cities, corporates and other large buyers accelerate the transition to a clean energy future. WRI focuses on addressing market barriers to clean energy, accelerating the transition to renewable resources and advancing innovative solutions for a low carbon grid.

The United States is at a historic crossroads on energy. Unprecedented demand, surging electricity prices, an aging grid, shifts in the global energy market and the increasing impacts of climate change all demand bold action. This is a new era — one that calls for innovative, modern solutions. The U.S. needs an all-hands-on-deck strategy that utilizes the smartest and most efficient options we have at our disposal.

34%

of households forewent basic necessities to pay energy bills

3.6M+

Americans with clean energy jobs

$21.5B

avoided air pollution damages in 2024

1057TWh

electricity generated by renewable sources in 2024

Clean energy isn’t merely an option in this era. It is one of the most cost-effective and reliable energy solutions we have.

View our most recent highlights

View 2024 highlights

View 2023 highlights

In the United States, the WRI U.S. Polsky Energy Center works directly with governments, utilities, regulators, businesses, community leaders and other key decision-makers to solve the most pressing challenges in the clean energy transition. We pair rigorous analysis with on-the-ground technical assistance and convening to help these stakeholders turn plans and goals into successful projects, resilient systems and equitable outcomes.

With our recent investment from the Polsky Foundation, our team is focusing on six major components of the energy transition: siting; transmission and distribution infrastructure; large buyer demand; future workforce and entrepreneurs; energy minerals; and finance.

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Local and State Clean Energy Programs

WRI provides technical assistance and support at the state, local and tribal level to help public agencies and communities in the U.S. advance their clean energy and equity goals.
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Part of Energy
U.S. Climate Policy Resource Center

Breaking down climate policy and investments in the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to facilitate implementation at the federal, state and local levels and support uptake by both the public and private sectors.
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Part of Climate
Equitable Clean Energy for Communities

Working to expand clean energy access to all communities, especially those who are climate-vulnerable and have historically had the least access to the benefits of clean energy due to systemic inequities.
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Part of Energy
Clean Energy for Large Buyers

Working with large energy buyers to implement renewable energy alternatives.
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Part of Energy
Utility Clean Energy Solutions

Working with utilities, cities and relevant stakeholders to explore how they can implement shared clean energy goals.
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Part of Energy
Power System Reform

Engaging with wholesale market operators, utilities, developers, electricity customers and other key actors to strengthen and modernize the U.S. power system
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Part of Energy
24/7 Carbon-Free Energy

Helping large energy buyers explore 24/7 carbon-free energy—commitments, demand shifting approaches, procurement strategies and tracking.
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Part of Energy
Electric Vehicles in the U.S.

Assessing the climate, environmental, social and economic impact of the shift to electric vehicles and ensuring an equitable transition to clean transportation in the U.S.
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Part of Clean Energy