WASHINGTON, D.C.—In response to President Biden’s February 16, 2023, Executive Order (EO) 14091 titled “Further Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities Through the Federal Government,” the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has unveiled its 2023 Equity Action Plan (EAP). This plan outlines the progress made by the DOE thus far and the strategies it will implement to further advance equity for all Americans.  

“Since Day One the Biden-Harris Administration has committed to lifting up communities that have been overburdened by pollution and historically excluded from economic growth and prosperity. DOE’s 2023 Equity Action opens more opportunities for these communities to fully participate in the benefits of the Department’s historic clean energy investments,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “I’m proud to announce this major milestone to advance equity and a continued commitment to advancing equal opportunity for all Americans.” 

DOE’s comprehensive examination of its methods and policies focused on procurement, financial assistance, research and development (R&D), demonstration and deployment, and stakeholder engagement. DOE’s 2023 Equity Plan outlines the top five new priority strategies to further advance equity for all Americans and recaps the progress made by the Department thus far.  

The 2023 Equity Action Plan highlights the top five new priority strategies to advance equity. These include: 1) establishing a DOE-wide Community Benefits Plan framework; 2) updating the Merit Review program to facilitate equitable outcomes, 3) increasing access to procurement opportunities for new entrants and disadvantaged businesses, 4) integrating justice considerations into R&D programs, and 5) developing an agency-wide framework to work with Tribal and disadvantaged communities. 

Since the launch of the 2022 Equity Action Plan, the DOE has achieved significant milestones in these priority areas. The department has made substantial progress in promoting gender equity and equality, ensuring diversity and inclusion in its workforce, and advancing LGBTQ+ civil rights. Additionally, through the Justice40 Initiative, the DOE has taken significant steps to address environmental injustices and uplift marginalized communities.  

Below are key accomplishments achieved by the DOE thus far. 

• Addressed gaps in data collection to facilitate data-informed decision-making. 
• Increased opportunities for new applicants to DOE funding opportunities. 
• Increased participation in DOE R&D and financial assistance programs. 
• Expanded strategic Tribal and stakeholder engagement across DOE programs. 
• Improved access and equity in DOE’s Weatherization Assistance Program. 

The release of the 2023 Equity Action Plan underscores the DOE’s commitment to advancing equity and equal opportunity for all Americans. By prioritizing environmental justice and inclusivity, the department is taking a crucial step towards building a more equitable and sustainable future. 

As this work continues, updates will be posted on www.energy.gov/equity. Learn more about the Administration’s equity work at whitehouse.gov/equity and check out all Federal Equity Action Plans at performance.gov/equity.  

For more information on the DOE’s Equity Action Plan and its accomplishments, please visit our website.