HARRISBURG – The commonwealth will begin accepting comments on a new grant program made possible through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that will help local governments and non-profit entities make shovel-ready, energy efficient or conservation projects a reality, said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Hanger.
“We are seeking input and feedback from the public and local government officials to make sure the state is using its share of the recovery funding as effectively and efficiently as possible,” said Hanger. “With revenues falling, many municipalities in Pennsylvania are struggling to balance budgets. We want to make sure that this funding supports projects that ultimately provide significant savings that will, in turn, bolster the local economy.”
A result of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, more than $23 million will be available to local governments and non-profit entities in Pennsylvania through the new Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program to reduce energy costs and promote conservation.
“By reducing energy use, Pennsylvania’s communities will free up their local budgets for important community initiatives and projects,” said Hanger, noting that the money saved as the result of reduced energy bills can be used to strengthen the local workforce, purchase Pennsylvania products and improve the environment.
Guidelines for the grant program are available for public review and comment online under the heading “Where is your money going?” and then by clicking on “Energy Independence.” Comments will be accepted until Friday, May 15, and should be sent to epeecbgcomments@state.pa.us.
Following the review of public comments and recommendations, the department anticipates accepting new applications for the program beginning Monday, June 15. To learn more about how the federal economic stimulus will benefit communities across Pennsylvania, visit here.