DOE Approves $508 M for 16 States' Spending
The U.S. Department of Energy has approved 16 state energy program spending plans authorized as part of the federal economic stimulus package signed into law in February.
With the approval of these plans, 16 of the nation’s State Energy Offices are receiving $508 million, representing 50 percent of full program funding. Remaining funding will come as states implement their programs and deliver results, according to a June 30 press release from the National Association of State Energy Officials.
The 16 state plans are Arizona, California, Connecticut, Florida, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, North Carolina, South Carolina, South Dakota, Utah and Washington.
DOE continues to review State Energy Program spending plans from 39 other states and U.S. territories. Action on the plans is expected by the end of July.
These energy plans fulfill state obligations under the federal State Energy Program, one of a number of stimulus-funded programs operated by the 56 State and Territory Energy Offices. Total stimulus funding for the State Energy Program is $3.1 billion.
“This funding will provide an important boost for state economies, help put Americans back to work, and move us toward energy independence,” said DOE Secretary Steven Chu. “It reflects our commitment to support innovative state and local strategies to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy while insisting that taxpayer dollars be spent responsibly.”
The National Association of State Energy Officials, based in Alexandria, Va., represents the State and Territory Energy Offices. NASEO members, typically designated by governors, are leading state efforts to direct, invest, and manage energy spending to maximize energy savings, private sector cost-share, and economic benefits, including jobs.
Following is a brief overview of two states’ State Energy Program spending plans:
The Arizona Energy Office submitted a $55.4 million plan, which has been approved. Programs for Arizona schools and state buildings will utilize energy performance contracting to leverage $30 million in stimulus funding with private capital to achieve $150 million in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. These energy performance contracts will reduce annual utility costs by $15.5 million for Arizona taxpayers. Additional programs will distribute $25 million in funding, grants, incentives and a revolving energy loan program to encourage energy efficiency and renewable energy projects statewide. Overall, the program is expected to create more than 1,500 jobs.
A complete list of State Energy Offices is accessible at http://naseo.org/members/states.