Harris County stands up to Trump Administration's moves against Solar for All Program
October 14, 2025
By Shaneece Flax Communication Coordinator, New Economy for Working Houston
President Trump and the Environmental Protection Agency last summer abrogated $7 billion in federal Solar for All grants, stripping funding meant to deliver affordable clean energy, improved storage, and power reliability for low‑income households in Houston.
The Power Up Harris County coalition has been working alongside Harris County to implement this project in our community effectively providing sustainable energy practices.
Amy Zachmeyer, Executive Director for New Economy from working Houston alongside Power Up Harris County are building up defenses preparing to challenge the alleged termination from the Trump administration.
“This fight isn’t over. We fully expect this to move to the courts, and we’re preparing accordingly,” said Amy Zachmeyer. “We need to keep lifting up the stories and facts that make this program so essential—more affordable power, good jobs, and a more resilient grid in a state that is desperate for every watt.”
The Texas power grid is prone to disturbances from extreme weather conditions and Solar for All would improve reliability and affordability–key for residents as the region’s population grows and energy costs steadily rise.
The Power Up Harris County Coalition released a statement focusing on the importance of assisting struggling communities and improving the power grid with innovative policies.
“The people of Harris County are struggling. We need and deserve lower energy bills and a grid that we can rely on. Harris County, along with a coalition of cities and counties across Texas, fought for, won, and signed a contract with the EPA to build new solar generation,” said The Power Up Harris County Coalition. “A contract is a contract, and we look forward to seeing this funding restored, our project completed, our costs lowered, and more energy for our communities.”
Harris County’s $250 million investment will deliver community solar and backup power projects that boost energy reliability, improve health, and lower utility costs in vulnerable neighborhoods.
On October 13, Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee announced that Harris County filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, and EPA Award Official Devon Brown, challenging the Trump administration’s decision to unlawfully terminate the Solar for All program.
"The Trump administration is breaking the law to score political points, and Harris County residents shouldn’t have to pay that price," said Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee. "Congress appropriated this funding, EPA awarded it to Harris County after a rigorous competitive process. The administration's attempt to claw back these obligated funds is not only unlawful and sets us back at a time when we should be doing everything we can to build resilience, cut energy costs, add power to the grid, and support job growth in places that need it most."
A ruling in Harris County’s favor could reinstate millions in clean‑energy funding and safeguard critical investments for vulnerable communities across Texas.
The outcome will determine whether local families see promised relief in lower utility costs, stronger energy reliability, and new green jobs.
