Navigating Uncertainty: Federal Policy, Climate Progress, and the Path Forward

ACT & Tremont Strategies Group Hosts Timely Webinar

The future of the climate economy is being shaped right now—not just by innovation and investment, but by the rapidly evolving federal policy landscape. At a pivotal moment for the United States, ACT and Tremont Strategies convened a panel to unpack what recent federal shifts mean for climate and energy policy, and how businesses, municipalities, and advocates can prepare for what’s next.

Moderated by ACT President Joe Curtatone, the event featured George Gomes, Liesl Sheehan, and Dan Collins of Tremont Strategies—all seasoned experts with deep insight into federal and state-level policymaking.

A Shifting Political Landscape

Curtatone opened the discussion by acknowledging the complexity and uncertainty created by recent changes in Washington. “We’re in a pivotal moment,” he said, “where decisions made—or delayed—at the federal level will determine how quickly and equitably we transition to clean energy.”

The conversation highlighted that while the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have created unprecedented funding opportunities, political backlash and administrative delays are threatening the pace of implementation. “We’re seeing efforts to claw back funds, or limit them through regulatory inaction,” noted Liesl Sheehan. “That affects not just the public sector, but also private companies counting on those incentives to de-risk investment.”

What’s at Stake

The panelists emphasized that beyond funding, federal signals affect everything from permitting and grid modernization to EV infrastructure and tax credit certainty. Dan Collins pointed to the slowdown in NEVI (National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure) program rollout as a cautionary tale. “Programs designed to accelerate EV adoption are now facing headwinds that could stall momentum—especially in states like Massachusetts that were slower to act.”

For local leaders, project developers, and clean tech startups, this creates real uncertainty. George Gomes highlighted that many organizations are in a “wait-and-see” mode. “The challenge is knowing when to move forward and when to hold back—and how to frame your story to attract bipartisan support.”

Turning Uncertainty into Strategy

Despite the hurdles, the conversation also focused on proactive steps organizations can take to stay on course:

• Be nimble and informed. Stay current on shifting policy developments and use resources like ACT’s op-eds and newsletters, and Tremont’s policy briefings.
• Tell your impact story. Whether you're a startup or a municipality, data-driven storytelling that shows economic and social impact can help attract support across the aisle.
• Leverage state and regional action. While federal leadership is critical, states remain powerful drivers. “Massachusetts may face federal challenges, but regional coalitions and state funding still offer pathways forward,” said Curtatone.
• Understand the whole supply chain of your project, from research to manufacturing in order to create a broader map of legislative leaders on both sides of the aisle who can support your funding needs and advocate with the current administration.

A Call for Leadership

The event closed with a call to action: Now is not the time to slow down. “Leadership matters more than ever,” Curtatone emphasized. “Whether you’re in government, business, or community organizing, now is the time to double down on collaboration, equity, and evidence-based action.”

ACT will continue to work with partners like Tremont Strategies to keep our members informed and up-to-date on these critical issues.