# NRDC Launches Build Clean Agenda for Sustainable Energy Expansion The initiative aims to quadruple U.S. clean energy capacity while prioritizing community and environmental protection. - **Source:** [CleanTechnica](https://cleantechnica.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [climate](https://brifing.si/c/climate) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/325d7d52-08be-4107-bd9c-5ee6afa6cefa ## Strategic Clean Energy Expansion The Natural Resources Defense Council has introduced its Build Clean agenda to address the urgent need for rapid renewable energy deployment. The organization aims to quadruple United States electricity generation and transmission capacity by 2040. This plan focuses on electrifying buildings and vehicles while maintaining rigorous standards for environmental and community protection. ## Beyond Simple Permitting Reforms NRDC experts argue that current permitting reforms are insufficient to meet national climate targets. The agenda emphasizes that outdated infrastructure and grid-connection delays require systemic modernization. By advocating for fair competition and updated policy frameworks, the organization seeks to resolve bottlenecks that currently hinder the transition to a sustainable power grid. ## Prioritizing Local Community Engagement A core component of the Build Clean vision involves early and meaningful engagement with local stakeholders. The initiative promotes impact assessments and formal agreements that ensure projects deliver tangible benefits to surrounding communities. This approach aims to improve project outcomes while accelerating the delivery of clean energy infrastructure across the country. ## Balancing Renewables and Biodiversity The agenda directly addresses the tension between expanding renewable energy and protecting wildlife habitats. NRDC calls for development strategies that avoid sensitive ecosystems entirely. When impact is unavoidable, the plan mandates mitigation, habitat restoration, and the creation of new protections for wild places to ensure long-term ecological health and environmental stewardship. ## Economic Advantages of Modernization NRDC asserts that economic benefits alone are not enough to drive the necessary energy transition. The organization highlights that modern systems and shared benefits are essential for long-term success. By integrating economic opportunity with environmental safeguards, the Build Clean agenda seeks to create a more secure and affordable climate future for all. ## Organizational Expertise and Reach The Natural Resources Defense Council leverages the power of 1.3 million members and online activists to drive its mission. The group combines this grassroots support with the legal and scientific expertise of over 350 professionals. This dual approach allows the organization to influence policy through both public advocacy and courtroom litigation efforts. ## Leadership and Programmatic Focus Julie Cerqueira, the chief program officer at NRDC, is currently leading the organization's efforts to navigate complex climate challenges. Her work focuses on implementing the Build Clean agenda to tackle systemic barriers. She provides strategic direction on how to effectively balance rapid infrastructure growth with the protection of critical natural resources. ## Future Outlook for Infrastructure The Build Clean agenda serves as a roadmap for a fast, fair, and effective energy transition. By focusing on healthier communities and thriving nature, the initiative sets a precedent for future development. Success will depend on the ability to align policy reforms with the practical needs of both energy developers and local. ## Sources covering this story - https://cleantechnica.com/2026/11/12/build-clean-accelerating-affordable-energy-while-advancing-community-and-environmental-stewardship/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._