POLITICO Energy The one climate technology that might survive the GOP megabill
Jun 10, 2025
Debra Kahn, editor of POLITICO's California Climate newsletter, discusses the resilience of carbon capture technology amidst GOP budget cuts. She reveals how this technology has gained unexpected bipartisan support, particularly due to its ties to job creation in the petroleum industry. Kahn also analyzes the importance of state initiatives and the potential federal intervention regarding the Colorado River negotiations, highlighting the urgent need for collaboration as climate policies evolve.
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Carbon Capture's GOP Tax Credit Advantage
- Carbon capture projects enjoy more lenient timelines for tax credits compared to wind, solar, and nuclear in the GOP reconciliation bill.
- This makes carbon capture's federal support less vulnerable to GOP-led cuts amid broader climate tech rollbacks.
Petroleum Industry Shields Carbon Capture
- Carbon capture mostly avoids GOP attacks partly due to strong petroleum industry support.
- Key Republicans defend carbon capture as it benefits districts with oil and gas interests.
Heirloom's Strategic Positioning
- Heirloom distinguishes itself as direct carbon removal, not traditional carbon capture.
- Its Louisiana project near Speaker Mike Johnson's district highlights bipartisan job and climate arguments.