Search Climate Insights Directory

The report analyzes the federal permitting process for high-capacity electric transmission lines in the U.S., identifying systemic delays caused by poor interagency coordination, capacity shortages, and regulatory misalignment between federal and state authorities. Based on a dataset of 37 projects and case studies, it argues that while litigation is often cited as a primary barrier, it is rarely the sole cause of project failure. The authors recommend that the President prioritize transmission as a national priority, that Congress consolidate siting authority for multi-state projects, and that agencies adopt more agile, transparent, and collaborative environmental review processes, including expanded use of programmatic EISs and categorical exclusions.

The report finds that climate-related financial cooperation between MDBs and NDBs is currently limited, with approximately USD 7 billion in tracked flows from 2015 to 2022. There is significant divergence in how these institutions approach Paris alignment, with MDBs generally possessing more standardised targets and dedicated energy policies, while NDBs often anchor their goals in national NDCs. Key barriers to increased cooperation include currency risks, differing institutional mandates, and gaps in technical capacity. The authors recommend that MDBs optimise on-lending models, promote local currency instruments, and share expertise through platforms like Finance in Common to scale up climate investment.