30 Million Boost: US Department of Energy Backs 28 Communities in Energy Efficiency Drive
In a significant stride towards advancing President Biden’s ambitious “Investing in America” agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of State and Community Energy Programs has unveiled a substantial injection of $30 million in funding for clean energy initiatives, made possible through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. This funding windfall is poised to make a transformative impact as it cascades through 28 state, local, and Tribal governments across the nation, with the overarching goal of fortifying clean energy endeavors and catalyzing infrastructure enhancements in both the public and private spheres.
The EECBG Program, fortified by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is set to dispense $21.87 million in formula grants, benefiting eight states and eight local governments. An additional $8.8 million in competitive grant funding has been earmarked for 12 carefully selected recipients. At the heart of this monumental initiative lies a steadfast commitment to elevating energy efficiency, curtailing energy expenditures, and championing clean energy adoption in diverse settings, ranging from residential abodes to government edifices, healthcare institutions, and other pivotal public arenas.
U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer M. Granholm expressed her elation regarding the distribution of these funds, articulating, “Our local governments stand as vanguards of our nation’s clean energy revolution, serving as critical conduits to our communities as we endeavor to create cleaner, healthier, and more affordable living environments. With unprecedented funding made possible by President Biden’s landmark clean energy legislation, a multitude of Americans will reap the benefits, including home upgrades facilitated by residential energy efficiency rebates, expanded weatherization initiatives, and electrification programs designed to enhance energy savings and overall comfort. Moreover, this funding infusion will revitalize public spaces, ushering in a new era of accessibility to energy-efficient technologies and clean energy infrastructure. Think heat pumps, LED lighting, solar power solutions, and electric vehicle charging stations accessible to communities nationwide.
