This three-part series from Generation180’s Executive Director, Stuart Gardner, offers a fresh take on where we are and what lies ahead for clean energy in 2025. TLDR: While federal policies and leaders are changing, clean energy momentum is here to stay. From record-breaking electric vehicle sales to the rise in climate advocacy, the transition to renewables is unstoppable. At the heart of this transformation isn’t just policy or innovation—it’s people. Generation180 remains steadfast in our commitment to inspire and equip individuals and communities – our clean energy ambassadors, partners and readers like you – as we work forward a better, cleaner future for all.  

In his first weeks in office, President Trump has significantly altered the trajectory of U.S. energy and environmental policies and threatened to enter the U.S. into trade wars with neighboring countries and abroad. Key executive orders in the first week of taking office declared an energy “emergency,” rolling back critical Biden-era initiatives aimed at combating climate change, ensuring long-term U.S. industrial competitiveness, and transitioning to a clean energy future.

This included the Secretary of the Department of Transportation rescinding tailpipe emissions standards and fuel economy regulations, suspending efficiency rules, and revoking California’s waiver under the Clean Air Act to set its own emissions standards, which 11 other states had adopted.

These moves aim to “unleash” American energy production, promote drilling development, and challenge the growth of renewable energy, particularly offshore wind power. However, the U.S. ‘fossil fuel-first’ policies could compel Americans to consume more dirty fuels, fall behind competitively, and face higher costs of living.

Meanwhile, momentum in the U.S. electric vehicle (EV) sector is at an all-time high. Under the Biden administration, private companies announced over $208.8 billion in U.S. EV and battery manufacturing investments, and public EV chargers more than doubled, growing from 95,000 in early 2021 to over 207,000 today. EV adoption continues to surge, with U.S. sales reaching a record 1.3 million vehicles in 2024. Projections for 2025 suggest another 36% increase, potentially surpassing 1.77 million sold.

As federal policy shifts under new leadership, Americans have purchasing power to say, we do not want to move backward and instead want a clean energy future.

Why Now is the Time to Act on EVs

Americans have an opportunity to choose clean energy and EVs over antiquated fossil fuel related technologies. As federal policy shifts under new leadership, Americans have purchasing power to say, “We do not want to move backward and instead want a clean energy future.”  The window to capitalize on current incentives may be narrowing, but here’s why now is the best time to switch to an electric vehicle:

1. Federal Tax Incentives: For now, drivers can still recoup up to $7,500 for new EVs and up to $4,000 for used ones. These benefits make EVs more affordable, but could disappear with policy reversals. Acting now secures these savings.
2. Long-Term Cost Savings: EVs save owners an estimated $6,000–$12,000 over their lifetime through lower fuel and maintenance costs. Charging is significantly cheaper than gas, and EVs eliminate costs like oil changes and extensive repairs.
3. Expanding Infrastructure: Billions in federal and private investments have expanded the EV charging network, making ownership more convenient than ever. Buying now ensures access to these improvements while funding remains a priority.
4. Avoid Future Price Hikes: Rising demand and potential inventory shortages could drive up EV prices. Purchasing now secures both availability and affordability.

More than 90% of EV owners report that they will never go back to gas-powered vehicles – their experience with EVs is simply better.

More Than a Better Car—It’s a Movement

Investing in an EV is about more than transportation. EVs offer instant torque, a smooth and quiet ride, and the freedom of home charging. But they also contribute to energy independence and environmental stewardship, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality, especially when paired with home solar. More than 90% of EV owners report that they will never go back to gas-powered vehicles – their experience with EVs is simply better. It’s our job to help all Americans realize these benefits and make the switch.

A Vision for the Future

As the U.S. energy landscape undergoes dramatic changes, the choice between reverting to fossil fuel dependency and embracing a sustainable future has never been clearer. EVs represent a crucial step toward energy efficiency, climate resilience, and long-term savings.

Despite the uncertainty ahead, the progress made in EV adoption, infrastructure, and innovation is a testament to what’s possible with focused investment and policy alignment. For our part, Gen180 will continue developing campaigns that inspire more Americans to make their next vehicle electric. Last year we launched, ‘I’ll Drive What She’s Driving,’ and partnered with social media influencers to encourage women to see themselves behind the wheel. This year, we will recruit EV owners to give EV rides through our 10,000 Drives campaign. Research shows that once people take a test-drive, they’re significantly more likely to consider an EV.

We will continue to join forces with partners to continue to showcase the benefits of EVs, address lingering misconceptions, and demonstrate how all Americans can benefit from transportation electrification.

Join the Gen180 Community

It’s an all-hands-on deck moment. Want to get involved? Join Gen180’s clean energy ambassador community, our Electrify Your Ride Facebook group, or learn other ways to get involved, stay inspired, and take action. You can also support our work to ensure a clean energy future for all.

Together, we’ve got this.

-Stuart Gardner, Executive Director, Generation180