Biden Administration Approves $42 Billion in Green Energy Projects in Final Days

In its final working days, the Biden administration's Energy Department approved nearly $42 billion in green energy projects, surpassing the total funding allocated by the Loan Programs Office (LPO) over the past decade. This massive infusion of funds, approved on January 16 and 17, 2025, brought the total disbursements since November 2024 to at least $93 billion. The rush to approve loans appears to have been driven by concerns that the incoming Trump administration would redirect uncommitted funds away from clean energy initiatives.
Despite a warning from the department's inspector general to suspend operations due to potential conflicts of interest, the LPO proceeded with the approvals. Critics fear the Biden administration may have created multiple "Solyndras"—references to the failed green energy company that collapsed after receiving $570 million in Obama-era funding.
The Trump administration has already begun reviewing these deals, with Energy Secretary Chris Wright expressing concerns about the lack of due diligence. "It is extremely concerning how many dozens of billions of dollars were rushed out the door without proper due diligence," Wright said. The LPO's funding comes from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, which allocated $400 billion for clean energy projects, a tenfold increase over previous spending.
The Biden administration's approach to green energy funding has raised questions about whether taxpayer money is being used to prop up companies that might not survive in the private market. The Trump administration has vowed to scrutinize these deals, aiming to align the LPO with its energy policy goals, including nuclear projects and reducing reliance on Chinese supply chains.
As the review continues, concerns persist about the long-term viability of these projects and the potential risks to taxpayers. The Biden administration's legacy in green energy remains under scrutiny, with critics warning of wasted resources and questionable business practices.

Published: 7/5/2025