Biden Administration Awards $18.5 Million For Energy Efficiency Grants Across States And Localities

In a significant move towards advancing clean energy goals, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced the allocation of $18.5 million to support energy efficiency initiatives across four states and 20 local governments. This funding, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda and facilitated through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program, aims to drive down energy consumption, mitigate climate impacts, and bolster community resilience.

“This funding empowers state and local governments to lead the charge in reducing emissions, enhancing climate resilience, and fostering sustainable communities,” stated U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “By investing in these projects, we are paving the way for a cleaner energy future that benefits all Americans.”

This marks the seventh round of formula grants under the EECBG Program, which has already awarded nearly $150 million to 175 communities since its inception in October 2023. The program, totaling over $430 million in formula grant funding to date, enables eligible entities to choose from 14 categories of clean energy projects, aligning with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative. This initiative aims to allocate 40% of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities disproportionately affected by environmental challenges.

Projects funded in this round include a diverse array of initiatives aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability at the local level. For instance, California plans to focus on decarbonizing public and private buildings through its Local Government Building Decarbonization Challenge, addressing a quarter of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions from buildings.

Similarly, Cobb County, GA, aims to establish a Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM) facility to divert waste from landfills while advancing its sustainability goals. The county also intends to upgrade electric vehicle chargers and install solar-powered off-grid charging stations to promote fleet electrification.

Dane County, WI, will launch a building electrification campaign targeting disadvantaged communities, facilitating energy efficiency upgrades and home electrification through community-based organizations. This initiative not only reduces energy burdens but also enhances local workforce skills in clean energy sectors.

New Hampshire’s Municipal Solar Grant Program will empower small municipalities to install solar panels on municipal facilities, promoting energy independence and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania’s MORE Program will support financially distressed local governments in accessing capital for clean energy and efficiency projects, aiming to cut emissions significantly by 2050.

Philadelphia, PA, plans to implement a Cool Roofs Program to mitigate urban heat islands, enhance building energy management in schools, and educate the public on energy efficiency through community partnerships. These efforts are part of the city’s comprehensive strategy to combat climate change and promote environmental justice.

San Antonio, TX, will enhance transportation energy efficiency by offering rebates for e-bike purchases, developing an Energy Master Plan for the airport, and installing EV chargers in underserved communities. These initiatives are designed to improve air quality and increase access to clean transportation options.

In addition to these projects, various other states and localities across the U.S. will benefit from the latest round of funding, each contributing to the overarching goal of a cleaner, more sustainable future.

The DOE continues to provide technical assistance and support through its Blueprints and Blueprint Cohorts, offering guidance and expertise to maximize the impact of EECBG Program grants. Interested parties can learn more about applying for future rounds of funding and accessing technical resources on the EECBG Program website.

The application deadline for local governments is October 31, 2024, with additional opportunities available for Tribes until May 31, 2025. For more information on eligibility and application details, visit the DOE’s EECBG Program website.