Over $13 Million Available to Local Governments
SPRINGFIELD - May 17, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today announced the availability of $13.1 million in federal stimulus funds through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program to help local governments with populations under 35,000 implement energy efficiency and conservation efforts.
"The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program is a great example of how we're using our investments in the green industry to grow our economy and create jobs, while creating a more sustainable living environment," said Governor Quinn.
The competitive grant program is being made available through the State Energy Office at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and will be administered by the Illinois Association of Regional Planning Councils (ILARC). Applications must be submitted to the ILARC by June 11.
Federal EECBG program dollars have been allocated by population to regional planning agencies, to serve cities and counties not entitled to direct grants from the U.S. Department of Energy. Each regional agency will provide a local Request for Application (RFA) for the program to interested grantees, tailored to that region's needs. Possible projects, depending on region, include creation of a strategic energy plan, residential and commercial building audits, energy retrofits, or purchasing hybrid, electric or alternative-fueled vehicles.
"These stimulus grants will help small and medium size cities throughout the state invest in energy solutions that are clean, reliable and affordable while creating needed green sector jobs," said DCEO Director Warren Ribley.
To find out which categories are available in your area, find your regional planning agency online at www.ilarconline.org.
The regional councils and planning commissions in the ILARC membership were created to study regional conditions and needs, and develop strategies which enhance each region's communities. They provide advocacy, planning, technical assistance and project development in areas such as community development, transportation, housing, land use, energy efficiency, sold waste and natural resources.
For more information about the state's energy efforts, please visit the Illinois Energy Office Web site at www.illinoisenergy.org.
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