Subnational Roundtable Discussion: Navigating a New Policy Era

September 5, 2025. The Center for Climate Strategies (CCS), in collaboration with the Climate Group, recently convened a closed-door strategic roundtable moderated by Governor Bill Ritter and CCS President and CEO, Tom Peterson. The session brought together U.S. subnational leaders to exchange perspectives on advancing climate action, unlocking funding opportunities, and navigating today’s shifting policy landscape. Below are the key themes and insights:

1. Federal shifts demand rapid adaptation

Many programs are expiring or constrained. This is pushing states and localities to accelerate private partnerships and executive and legislative actions where possible, while exploring alternative finance and regulatory pathways to fill the gap.

2. Affordability is at the center of the debate

Across regions, leaders stressed the importance of focusing climate and clean energy policies around demonstrated home and business cost savings, reliability, and economic security in addition to environmental outcomes.

3. Economic development opportunities are resurging

Clean energy and transportation investments are increasingly recognized as engines of local economic growth, job creation, and national security. From clean fuel standards to incentives for zero-emission vehicles and grid services, states and localities are identifying ways to leverage climate action as an economic driver.

4. Financing models are evolving

The loss of certain federal grants has underscored the need for sustainable financing strategies and mechanisms. Scaling green banks, leveraging state utility commissions, and mitigating private-sector risk through public investment are some of the critical pathways to ensure long-term capital flow.

5. Local action and partnerships remain essential

Communities are retooling programs to fill service gaps, particularly around resilience, cooling, and local energy access. Partnerships with community organizations, utilities, and philanthropic groups are crucial to bridging shortfalls and maintaining momentum.

6. Risks to air quality and emissions goals are rising

Reducing pollutants such as nitrogen oxides will become increasingly difficult. States noted the challenge of meeting climate targets while simultaneously transitioning away from high polluting energy sources, underscoring the need for innovative approaches.

What’s Next

The roundtable reinforced that while the policy environment is shifting, opportunities remain abundant. CCS will continue to provide technical assistance to states and localities navigating this dynamic landscape. Please reach out as needed!

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