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Policy

Clean Energy Triumphs Over Fossil Fuels Across America

Local communities across the political spectrum are proving that clean energy wins when the fight is fair.

September 4, 2025

4 Min Read

Wind turbines stand tall as symbols of America’s shifting energy landscape.

Photo by Venti Views on Unsplash

Why it Matters

Despite Big Oil's massive political influence, Americans across the political spectrum are successfully fighting fossil fuel expansion in their communities—and winning. This grassroots resistance offers a blueprint for how clean energy can compete on a level playing field.


The Big Picture

Clean energy already dominates on economics, speed, and public support. Renewables provided 93% of new electricity capacity worldwide in 2024, while construction times for solar (15 months) and wind (18 months) crush gas plants (2+ years). Yet fossil fuel subsidies and regulatory rollbacks keep propping up an industry that America doesn't need.


By the Numbers

  • Clean energy comprises 40% of U.S. energy sector employment.

  • 93% of Democrats and 73% of Republicans want America to lead clean energy development.

  • Majority of self-identified MAGA voters oppose increasing oil/gas production on public land.

  • Solar and wind are now cheaper than fossil fuels without subsidies.


David vs. Goliath Wins

Recent victories span red, blue, and purple states:

  • South Dakota: Trump-voting state passed pipeline protection laws on the same day they backed the president.

  • Pennsylvania: Cecil Township (60% Trump) banned fracking within 2,500 feet of homes and schools.

  • Virginia: Pittsylvania County (71% Trump) rejected a massive 3.5 gigawatt gas plant.

  • Lousiana: Republican AG backed $745 million Chevron fine for coastal damage.

  • Texas: GOP Governor Abbott signed law requiring oil companies to plug inactive wells.


The Resistance Toolkit

Communities are using multiple strategies—municipal ordinances, state lawsuits, zoning rejections, and eminent domain restrictions. Even conservative courts are ruling against fossil fuel interests, with the Supreme Court recently declining to hear cases that would have limited corporate liability.


What's Driving Success

America's democratic tradition of local civic engagement crosses party lines. When communities see direct threats to their water, air, and land, political affiliation matters less than protecting home.


The Bottom Line

Clean energy doesn't need protection—it needs fair competition. These local victories prove that when fossil fuel subsidies and regulatory advantages disappear, communities choose clean energy every time. The Davids are winning because they have the better slingshot: economics, health, and genuine public support.


Go Deeper
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