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In a significant move under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has unveiled its latest round of awards through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. The announcement details the distribution of $12.62 million to 32 local governments, two states, and one Tribe, aimed at enhancing energy efficiency, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, and lowering overall energy consumption. The funding, derived from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and managed by DOE’s Office of State and Community Energy Programs, will support a wide range of projects. These include energy assessments, efficiency upgrades for low-income households, the installation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and the development of solar energy initiatives. U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm highlighted the impact of the program, stating, “Through the investments from the EECBG Program, the Biden-Harris Administration is equipping local communities with the resources to lead our nation’s clean energy transition. These contributions are not just about cutting emissions—they’re about creating a healthier, more resilient country for all future generations.” This announcement marks the eighth tranche of awards from the EECBG Program. Since its inception in October 2023, the program has allocated nearly $162 million to 210 communities. The latest awards will support diverse projects such as energy efficiency upgrades, solar installations, and the purchase of alternative fuel vehicles. A notable milestone this August was the issuance of the first equipment voucher to the City of Livermore, CA. The voucher supports the installation of two solar-powered EV chargers at public facilities, demonstrating the program’s flexibility and commitment to advancing sustainable transportation and community resilience. The EECBG Program, aligned with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative, ensures that 40 percent of the benefits from certain federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities. This initiative is crucial for addressing the needs of underinvested areas and promoting environmental justice. Grantees from various regions will undertake projects such as: Arizona: Implementing a centralized resource for energy rebates and efficiency upgrades in government buildings. Georgia: Providing energy-efficient home appliance upgrades to income-qualified homeowners. New York: Supporting home energy efficiency through the Long Island Green Homes program. North Carolina: Launching a Solarize Campaign to boost solar energy adoption in low-income households.The EECBG Program also offers technical assistance through Blueprints and Blueprint Cohorts, which help communities implement high-impact clean energy projects. The next application deadlines are October 31, 2024, for local governments and May 31, 2025, for Tribes. |
