Raleigh, N.C. — On Friday, Governor Josh Stein delivered a clear message at the Emerging Issues Forum at NC State on Friday: North Carolina’s economic future depends on protecting clean energy investments and expanding affordable housing access. Speaking before a diverse group of business leaders, elected officials, and policy experts, the governor outlined his energy and housing priorities and urged Congress to act in support of North Carolina families.
“North Carolina is a leader in the clean energy economy, and we are home to more than 20,000 clean energy jobs and $24 billion in clean energy investments,” Governor Stein said. “Our state is well-positioned to continue that success, and I urge Congress to protect the clean energy investments that have contributed to our state’s prosperity.”
Stein warned that a proposed repeal of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) could jeopardize the state’s progress. According to projections, scrapping clean energy tax credits tied to the IRA could cost North Carolina tens of thousands of jobs by 2030 and raise electricity bills for families by an estimated $200 annually. The governor urged North Carolina’s congressional delegation to preserve the credits to keep costs down and maintain economic momentum.
Stein highlighted recent clean energy advancements, including the grand opening of Boviet Solar’s new module manufacturing facility in Greenville. The site has already created nearly 400 jobs and is expected to generate more as operations ramp up. Additionally, Stein’s recent recovery budget proposal includes $239 million to bolster critical infrastructure and protect against future disasters in western North Carolina.
Beyond energy, Stein turned his attention to another major concern for North Carolinians—housing.
“Our state is growing, and people need a safe and affordable place to live,” he said. “We will remain focused on identifying solutions to lower the cost of housing for North Carolinians at every stage of life.”
Stein’s 2025–2027 budget proposal includes $35 million annually for the state’s Housing Trust Fund to support low-income families, veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities. It also proposes $15 million for the Workforce Loan Program to fund construction and repair of affordable housing, and includes support for bipartisan efforts to reduce regulatory barriers for homebuilders.
Additionally, Stein has proposed $113 million for housing recovery in western North Carolina to help residents struggling with rent, mortgages, and utility payments in the wake of natural disasters.
As North Carolina continues to grow, Governor Stein’s dual focus on clean energy and affordable housing reflects his administration’s broader goal: building a resilient, inclusive economy that works for all North Carolinians.
