US Congress passed a $1.2 trillion infrastructure package on 5 November, approving a signature part of president Joe Biden’s economic agenda. It will deliver $550 billion of new federal investments in America's infrastructure over five years.
It includes a $65 billion investment in rebuilding the electric grid, calling for the construction of thousands of miles of new power lines, and expansion of the renewable energy sector. $7.5 billion would go to building a nationwide network of plug-in electric vehicle chargers, and $8 billion will be dedicated to building out the nation’s hydrogen capabilities.
The bill also provides for $55 billion to upgrade the drinking water infrastructure, replacing lead service lines and pipes.
As well as investment in energy systems the bill calls for spending $110 billion on roads, bridges and other major infrastructure projects – less than the $159 billion that Biden initially requested in the American Jobs Plan – $39 billion to modernise public transit – less than the $85 billion that Biden initially wanted – a $65 billion investment in improving the nation’s broadband infrastructure, compared to the $100 billion Biden wanted, $42 billion in repair and maintenance, and to promote electrification and other low-carbon technologies at ports and airports, and $7.5 billion for zero- and low-emission buses and ferries.
Another $50 billion would go towards making the system more resilient -- protecting it from drought, floods and cyber-attacks.
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