Invested In Climate

US Department of Energy's Chris Castro on helping communities access the IRA and more, Ep #50

May 2, 2023

44:24

The US Department of Energy (DOE) plays a key role in the rollout of climate funding and policies, so I was thrilled to chat with Chris Castro. Chris is the Chief of Staff of the Office of State and Community Energy Programs at the DOE. Chris brings entrepreneurial instincts and experience, along with clear passion to his role. We talk about Chris’ journey, the implementation of policies you’ve heard of like the IRA, as well as dozens of lesser-known initiatives managed by the DOE that are helping communities across the country decarbonize. There’s lots to learn in this one – enjoy.

In today’s episode, we cover:

[2:57] Chris’ journey in environmental policy, how it started & the different roles he played before being appointed by President Biden
[8:23] Chris’s current role & what he’s trying to accomplish at the DOE
[15:42] The Chips and Science Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law & the IRA
[21:54] Realizing climate opportunities equitably for communities
[24:34] The biggest barrier to these laws not creating their intended impact
[26:51] Signs the IRA will spark other investments in decarbonization, electrification & energy efficiency retrofits
[29:07] The path to decarbonizing building
[33:37] The umbrella of grant programs available
[38:08] What else needs to happen to address climate change
[41:05] Advice for listeners & entrepreneurs/intrapreneurs looking to get started