J.J. Smith

The IRA contains a provision called the “production tax credit” (PTC) that allows taxpayers to deduct a percentage of the cost of renewable energy systems from their federal taxes, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA says the modification to the construction general permit (CGP) expands the list of areas covered by CGP rules to include construction projects in all “lands of exclusive federal jurisdiction,” which are defined as lands in the U.S. where the federal government retains exclusive jurisdiction in relevant respects.

H.R. 2940 would provide investors in qualifying water reuse projects with a tax credit of 30 percent of the qualified investment for any taxable year.

Advances in technology such as directional drilling; fiber optic sensing; and hydraulic fracturing techniques from the oil and gas sector have “unlocked geothermal energy in places where it was previously impossible,” said Tim Latimer.

The Army Corps of Engineers is giving local governments, tribes, and nonprofits a chance to propose water-related projects—like improving flood control, water supply, or environmental infrastructure—for possible inclusion in its 2026 report to Congress. While this doesn’t mean projects will be built right away, it’s the first step in getting federal attention and funding.

'Uncertainty' about federal funding as directed by NEPA and the CWA is prevalent among utilities, according to Sigl, who said NEPA “has been extremely volatile since late” 2024.  

ince the IIJA’s inception, “thousands of projects have started, including projects to upgrade treatment plants, replace aging systems, and support the needs of small communities.”

The new initiative will enable EPA to tackle “PFAS from all of EPA’s program offices, advancing research and testing, stopping PFAS from getting into drinking water systems, holding polluters accountable, and providing certainty for passive receivers,” said EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.

The attacks have included threats of contamination and poisoning of water supplies, as well as arson attacks, bombs at water utilities, and others.

The Office of Water will 'be aimed at ensuring that we can make things better,' which has prompted the Office to plan 'listening sessions' that 'cross a wide range of stakeholders' in order to help 'chart our path,' she said.