Staff Contact: Joe Lerch
Energy and Environment Index
October 29- Webinar to focus on certain EECBG grants Nov. 4 October 23- Applications now open for Federal Energy Efficiency Block Grants October 14- Applications available for state Energy Efficiency Block Grant Program September 28- Webinar- you submitted your EECBG application: what's next? September 24- DMME receives $16,145,300 in EECBG funds for distribution September 18- Comments sought on energy competitive grants September 18- Chesapeake redevelopment authority receives funds September 4- Additional clean water projects funded September 4- Virginia receives “Clean Cities” funding August 31- Resources available to localities applying for energy grants August 24- Energy Revolving Loan Funds Webcast August 26 August 21- EPA guidance on measuring and reporting job estimates July 24- Energy assurance planning grants available to municipalities July 17- $22 Million for Community Renewable Energy Deployment July 14- Applications for Climate Showcase Communities Grants due July 22 July 14- Funding available through EPA’s Indoor Environments Program July 14- Sen. Mark Warner hosts energy summit July 14- DOE Recovery Act Clearinghouse available to answer questions July 14- Virginia to get $7.5 million for ENERGY STAR appliance rebate program July 13- Virginia’s Weatherization Assistance Program gets $37.7 million July 6- Application deadline extended for EECBG grant applicants June 25- Feds set application deadline for Energy Training Partnership Grants June 16- New resources available for energy block grant participants
June 16- Warner schedules energy stimulus funds summit July 10 June 11- DMME guidance on preparing EECBG grant applications June 11- Environmental internship program grants available June 10- Webcast: Local Efficiency and Renewable Projects for ARRA Funds June 10- ENERGY STAR Benchmarking Webcasts June 10- Energy’s Technical Assistance Project to host web seminar June 4- Department of Interior announces several ARRA grants June 4- EECBG Toolkit available from International Code Council May 28- Energy block grant webcasts set for May 29 and June 11 May 18- Phase I of the Rapid Deployment Energy Efficiency Toolkit released May 18- USDA announces rural community facility projects May 18- Model strategies added to Solution Center; DOE webcasts on EECBG May 13- Energy website revised; webcasts coming May 15 and May 20 May 13- State Water Control Board approves final list of clean water projects April 29- 36 local water quality projects to receive federal stimulus funds April 24- Labor secretary promises more action on green jobs skills training April 24- Energy Department rolls out more funds for the Clean Cities Program April 24- National Park Service announces funding for 800 projects April 23- $300 Million for Alternative Fueled Vehicles Pilot Grant Program April 9- Treasury issues guidance on energy bonds April 9- Rapid Deployment Energy Efficiency (RDEE) toolkit April 9- Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant deadline approaching April 9- NLC Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant webcast April 14 April 1- DEQ publishes priority list for stimulus-funded clean water projects March 26- Virginia will receive over $60 million for Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grants March 20- The deadline to apply for stimulus funds for drinking water is March 27th
March 13- Funding coming for water, wastewater, and waste projects March 11- Department of Energy has dedicated a webpage for Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grants available through the recovery act
October 29- Webinar to focus on certain EECBG grants Nov. 4
Our Oct. 23 stimulus update mentioned a new competitive grant program open under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. This new program includes the Retrofit Ramp-up Program and the General Innovation Fund. The total funding available under this program is $454 million. Applications are due Dec. 14. The U.S. Department of Energy will hold a webinar on this competitive grant program on Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 4-5 p.m., ET. You can register for this program at https://eecbg.webex.com/mw0306l/mywebex/default.do?nomenu=true&siteurl=eecbg&service= 6&main_url=https%3A%2F%2Feecbg.webex.com%2Fec0605l%2Feventcenter%2Fevent%2Fev entAction.do%3FtheAction%3Ddetail%26confViewID%3D1%26siteurl%3Deecbg%26%26%26. (PLEASE NOTE: This may take you to a page that says the event is over or not yet begun. If so, hit the “back” button in the middle of the screen to get to the event registration page. Then, you can click the “register” link on the screen for the Nov. 4 event.) The first topic area, the “Retrofit Ramp-Up” program, will award up to $390 million for innovative programs that are structure to provide whole-neighborhood building energy retrofits. These will be projects that demonstrate a sustainable business model for providing cost-effective energy upgrades for a large percentage of the residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings in a specific community. Possible approaches could include innovative partnerships between the public and private sector, utility retrofit and audit programs, alternative financing, retail partnerships and others. DOE expects to make between eight and 20 awards under this topic area, with award sizes ranging from $5-75 million. The second topic area, the “General Innovation Fund,” will award up to $64 million to local governments and state-recognized Indian Tribes that were not eligible to receive population-based formula grant allocations from DOE under the EECBG program. These funds are intended to help expand local energy efficiency efforts and reduce energy use in the commercial, residential, transportation, manufacturing, or industrial sectors. DOE expects to make 15 to 60 awards, with award size ranging from $1-5 million. DOE is seeking applications that: Leverage the participation and support of multiple communities, regional planning agencies, and state energy offices; Integrate cost-effective renewables with efficiency; Move beyond the planning stage and ready for implementation; Clearly articulate and demonstrate the ability to achieve measurable stretch goals and that have the potential to make an impact at the regional or national level; and Maximize the creation or retention or jobs in the United States.
For more information on the EECBG program, including the funding opportunity announcement, visit http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/about/competitive_grants.html. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
October 23- Applications now open for Federal Energy Efficiency Block Grants
Local governments have until Dec. 14 to submit applications for competitive grants under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. The U.S. Department of Energy expects to award $454 million in ARRA funds in two areas: 1) the Retrofit Ramp-up Program, and 2) the General Innovation Fund. The Retrofit Ramp-up Program is designed for innovative programs that are structured to provide whole-neighborhood building energy retrofits. Between eight and 20 awards are expected under this topic area, with award size ranging from $5-75 million. The General Innovation Fund is for local governments and State-recognized Indian Tribes that were not eligible to receive population-based formula grant allocations from the U.S. DOE under the EECBG. The Department expects to make 15 to 60 awards under this topic area, with award size ranging from $1-5 million. If your local government is interested in applying, DOE requests a voluntary letter of intent to apply by Nov. 19. For more information, visit http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/about/competitive_grants.html. For the complete Funding Opportunity Announcement, see http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/Downloads/EECBGCompetitiveFOA148MON.pdf. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
October 14- Applications available for state Energy Efficiency Block Grant Program
The Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) is now accepting applications for $9.7 million in Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funds that were allocated to the state for distribution to local governments who were not eligible for a direct EECBG grant. The competitive awards will be used to fund programs that support energy conservation activities such as:
Development and implementation of an energy efficiency strategy. Energy audits of homes and commercial buildings. Energy efficiency retrofits of nonprofit organizations and governmental agencies. Transportation measures to conserve energy and increase energy efficiency. Financial incentive program for energy efficiency improvements. Development and implementation of building codes and inspection services for public, commercial, industrial, and residential buildings to promote energy efficiency. Application of energy distribution technologies such as district heating and cooling systems. Activities to increase participation in material conservation programs such as recycling. Application of technologies that capture methane from landfills;
Installation of light emitting diodes (LED) in traffic signals and for indirect lighting of the outside of buildings. Use in any government building of onsite renewable energy such as solar thermal, solar electric, wind energy, or geothermal.
DMME will award grants through a management team created by the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions (VAPDC) and the state’s 21 Planning District Commissions (PDC). Applications are due November 6, and will only be accepted electronically. For additional information and guidance, please click here. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
September 28- Webinar- you submitted your EECBG application: what's next?
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will host a post-application submittal webinar for formula grant applicants of the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG). The webinar will outline current steps in the grant application process and preview the next steps including ongoing application review, registration in the U.S. Treasury Automated Standard Application for Payment (ASAP), communications with DOE, training on reporting and access to funds, technical assistance, and commencing project work. The webinar is offered on three different days for your scheduling convenience: September 30, October 1, and October 2 from 4:00-5:00 PM. Please use the following links to reserve your webinar seat as space is limited: Wednesday, Sept. 30: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/235778696 Thursday, Oct. 1: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/657548337 Friday, Oct. 2: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/119584376
After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
September 24- DMME receives $16,145,300 in EECBG funds for distribution
U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced today that Virginia has received $16,145,300 in state-level Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funds. The funds will be administered by the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME), to improve energy efficiency and promote the use of renewable energy across the state’s public and private sectors by putting in place self-sustaining energy efficiency programs and financing renewable energy systems for public facilities. DMME will pass along 60 percent of the funds to local governments that were not eligible for direct EECBG grants. The funds will be awarded competitively, with a priority on buildings programs and localities that join together into multi-jurisdictional alliances. DMME will also make funds available for the installation of renewable energy systems on local government and public buildings. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Loudoun County and Stafford County received direct EECBG grants to help improve energy efficiency, reduce energy use and create green jobs locally. Loudoun was allocated $2,215,600 and has obligated $250,000; Stafford was allocated, and has obligated $434,300. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
September 18- Comments sought on energy competitive grants
The Department of Energy has issued a request for information (RFI) regarding the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program competitive grants (Funding Opportunity Number DE-FOA-0000148; CFDA Number 81.128 – Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant Program). The deadline for comments is Sept. 28, 2009. Only electronically-transmitted comments will be accepted. No applications for grant funding will be accepted at this time. The Department seeks feedback from stakeholders (including local governments) on a planned competitive funding opportunity using ARRA funds. The ARRA appropriated $3.2 billion for the EECBG program, with $400 million to be awarded on a competitive basis to entities that are eligible to receive formula-based funds. In addition, the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA) stipulates that two percent of total program funding is reserved for competitive awards to units of local government that are ineligible to receive formula-based funds, and consortia of these ineligible entities. The Department anticipates that a total of $453.72 million will be available for competitive grants awarded through a single funding opportunities consisting of two topic areas: 1) the Retrofit Ramp-Up Program; and 2) the General Innovation Fund for Ineligible Entities. The entities eligible for up to $390.04 million available under topic one are the same entitles eligible for the formula EECBG program (including certain cities and counties). The eligible entities for the $63.68 million available under topic two are units of local governments and Indian Tribes not eligible for direct formula grants. The Department seeks feedback on the proposed topic areas and evaluation criteria for the competitive awards for eligible entities, and for those that are not eligible for direct formula grants. More information about the program may be found at https://www.fedconnect.net/FedConnect/PublicPages/PublicSearch/Public_Opportunities.aspx. Scroll through the grants to get to the EECBG program information, issued Sept. 14. Comments about the program may be submitted through email to: EECBG.Competitive.RFIcomments@emcbc.doe.gov no later than 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Sept. 28, 2009. Comments must be contained in a Microsoft Word (.doc) attachment to the email, no more than three pages in length, 12 point font, 1-inch margins. The Department will not post a compendium of responses or respond to individual submissions. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
September 18- Chesapeake redevelopment authority receives funds
The Chesapeake Housing and Redevelopment Authority was one of 36 public housing entities nationwide to receive a total of $300 million in ARRA funds for green public housing transformation programs. U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Raymond Donovan
announced the awards today. More announcements about these competitive grants will be made in the coming weeks. Chesapeake HRA will receive $3.34 million for work to increase the energy efficiency of a public housing community either through substantial rehabilitation or new construction. Examples of eligible projects include increased energy efficiency through use of Energy Star appliances; connection of neighborhoods to green spaces; and water conservation through watersaving appliances, fixtures, or efficient irrigation (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
September 4- Additional clean water projects funded
A total of $13.9 million in ARRA funds will be used to pay for additional improvements to wastewater treatment plans and collection systems in Virginia. The $13.9 million were funds left over after projects approved by the State Water Control Board in April came in underbudget. The localities and projects receiving funding include: City of Lexington, Sewer Line Rehabilitation City of Norton, Guest River Interceptor Replacement Phase 2 Town of Pulaski, Peak Creek Sewer Rehabilitation Town of Richlands, Birmingham Area Sewer System Installation (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
September 4- Virginia receives “Clean Cities” funding
The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy will receive $8.6 million in ARRA funds from the U.S. Department of Energy for its “Paving the Way with Propane: the AutoGas Corridor Development Program.” The project is aimed at building the infrastructure to encourage public and private vehicles from conventional gasoline to clean propane. The initiative includes 17 new propane fueling stations along high traffic roadways from Washington, D.C., to Florida and Mississippi to create the country’s first propane corridor. The Department of Energy estimates that the initiative will help displace 3.9 million gallons of petroleum annually. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
August 31- Resources available to localities applying for energy grants
Public Technology Institute (PTI), a national, non-profit technology research organization, along with the U.S. Department of Energy, has published Local Government Energy Assurance Guidelines to serve as a resource for localities interested in submitting proposals for funding as part of the Local Energy Assurance Planning (LEAP) initiative. The guidelines are designed to help local officials address energy assurance and security concerns for mission-critical
government facilities. A PDF of this guide is available at no charge at http://www.pti.org/index.php/ptiee1/more/410/. The goal of the LEAP initiative is to facilitate recovery from disruptions to the energy supply and enhance reliability and quicker repair of outages. This initiative will create jobs at the local level and allow localities to have well-developed, standardized energy assurance and resiliency plans that they can rely on during energy emergencies and supply disruptions. There will be 50 awards ranging from $60,000 to $300,000. PTI conducts a variety of energy assurance educational and outreach programs tailored specifically for local officials through the support of the Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Reliability. PTI is available to provide support, free of charge, to localities as they prepare their proposals. Please contact Ronda Mosley at rmosley@pti.org for more information. As a reminder, Oct. 8, 2009, is the application deadline. More information can be found at “Local Energy Assurance Planning” or through www.fedconnect.net; funding number DEFOA-0000098. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
August 24- Energy Revolving Loan Funds Webcast August 26
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Technical Assistance Project (TAP) for state and local officials is offering a webcast titled "Revolving Loan Funds: Basics and Best Practices" on Wednesday, August 26, from 3:00 to 4:15 p.m. The webcast will discuss how to use funding from the 2009 Recovery Act to establish a revolving loan program to support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. The presenters will include:
Samuel Booth, senior project leader at the DOE National Renewable Energy Laboratory, will discuss best practices in revolving loan funds. Theresa Sifuentes, Texas State Energy Conservation Office, manages the largest state revolving loan fund in the country: Texas LoanSTAR. Kathi Montgomery, Montana Department of Environmental Quality, manages the state's Alternative Energy Revolving Loan Program.
The webcast is free, but you must register in advance to obtain a URL for the presentation and call-in phone number. To register online and obtain background material, click here. If you are unable to attend the webcast, all TAP webcasts are archived online. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
August 21- EPA guidance on measuring and reporting job estimates
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued supplemental guidance on measuring and reporting job estimates under ARRA. The guidance includes a question and
answer section as well as EPA contact information for recipients seeking EPA concurrence on the use of a statistical estimate and a proposed methodology. All requests must be submitted to the EPA by September 10, 2009. Click here for more information on the supplemental guidance. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 24- Energy assurance planning grants available to municipalities
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced that $10.5 million in ARRA funding is available to cities and towns for the Local Energy Assurance Planning Initiative (LEAP). LEAP focuses on developing new, or refining existing, plans to integrate new energy portfolios and new applications, such as Smart Grid technology, into energy assurance and emergency preparedness plans. The objectives of LEAP are to strengthen and expand local government energy assurance planning and resiliency, reduce the impacts from energy supply disruptions and create jobs. To achieve the goals of LEAP, applicants are encouraged to consider various activities, including the following examples, when proposing projects: Creating in-house expertise at the local level on energy assurance planning and resiliency, focusing on Smart Grid applications and vulnerabilities, critical infrastructure interdependencies, cyber security, energy supply systems, energy data analysis, and communications; Revising appropriate policies, procedures and practices to reflect the Energy Assurance Plans; Training appropriate personnel on energy infrastructure and supply systems and the content and execution of energy assurance plans; Evaluating financing options to meet energy assurance needs; and Sharing lesson-learned and best practices among other local governments across the country.
There will be 50 awards ranging from $60,000 to $300,000, based on population. Funds cannot be used to supplant funds under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program, or the Annual State Energy Program. The application deadline is Oct. 8, 2009 and more information can be found at “Local Energy Assurance Planning” or through www.fedconnect.net; funding number DE-FOA0000098. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 17- $22 Million for Community Renewable Energy Deployment
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced plans to provide up to $22 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to support the planning and installation of utility-scale community renewable energy projects in up to four communities nationwide. The projects will demonstrate how multiple renewable energy technologies, including solar, wind, biomass, and geothermal systems, can be deployed at scale to supply clean energy to communities. Projects should address the technical, economic, and policy barriers to implementing a combination of renewable energy technologies into one integrated solution for a community to reduce its carbon footprint. Successful applicants must submit a comprehensive project plan that describes how the project will be planned and implemented. The comprehensive project plan should specify: 1. The renewable energy implementation plan. 2. The project implementation partners. 3. A preliminary economic assessment for the proposed project and description of the plan to obtain necessary financing. 4. The measurement, verification and reporting plan.
Completed applications are due September 3, 2009 and awardees will be selected by the end of November 2009. For more information, please visit www.grants.gov; funding opportunity number DE-FOA-0000122. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 14- Applications for Climate Showcase Communities Grants due July 22
A total of $10 million is available from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Climate Showcase Communities Program. EPA anticipates awarding up to 5 cooperative agreements of up to $100,000 and 19 -25 cooperative agreements ranging from $300,000 to $500,000. A match or cost-share is required for this program. This program will assist local and tribal governments in developing plans, conducting demonstrations, and implementing projects that reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while achieving additional environmental, economic, public health or community benefits. Proposed activities must achieve reductions in GHG emissions by addressing one or more of the following priority areas: energy performance in municipal operations (including municipal energy, water, and wastewater utilities) energy performance in residential, commercial, agricultural, aqua-cultural, and/or industrial buildings
land use, transportation, or community master planning reduction of vehicle miles traveled solid waste management agricultural, aqua-cultural, and natural resource management use or supply of green power products, on-site renewables, and other clean energy supply options heat island management removal of barriers for greenhouse gas management, through the development of effective programs, policies, or outreach other innovative activities which generate measurable reductions of greenhouse gases
For additional application information, please click here. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 14- Funding available through EPA’s Indoor Environments Program
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced that 25-35 cooperative agreements ranging between $25,000 and $300,000 per year will be awarded for demonstration, training, outreach and/or education that will have a national impact to reduce exposure to indoor air contaminants and yield measurable environmental outcomes. The goal of EPA’s Indoor Environments Program is to reduce the environmental health risks posed by contaminants in indoor environments. All proposals must yield results that can be tracked, evaluated and reported on and clearly articulate a plan to produce results that have national-scale implications or benefits. Applicants must address one or more of the following EPA indoor air quality program priority areas: 1. Radon 2. Indoor asthma triggers 3. Indoor air quality management programs in schools EPA anticipates the 2009 Indoor Environments competition to be highly competitive. In the 2005 Indoor Environments competition, 189 proposals were received and only 34 projects were funded. Applications are due September 14, 2009, click here for further information. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 14- Sen. Mark Warner hosts energy summit
On July 10, U.S. Sen. Mark Warner hosted the Virginia summit on energy opportunities at Hampton University. The summit featured speakers from the U.S. Department of Energy, state agencies and private sector experts on the following three panels:
1. Accessing stimulus funding for low income households and weatherization 2. Stimulus funds for state and local governments 3. Funding for innovative projects, such as smart grid and technology updates If you were unable to attend the summit, a video of the event as well as copies of handouts are expected to be available at http://warner.senate.gov/energy. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 14- DOE Recovery Act Clearinghouse available to answer questions
The Department of Energy’s (DOE) has set up the Recovery Act Clearinghouse to help increase the availability of information about DOE’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) activities. The Clearinghouse will provide initial consultations, and also make referrals when appropriate to other information sources (websites, documents, DOE staff, etc). You can call the Clearinghouse toll-free at: 1-888-DOE-RCVY (1-888-363-7289) Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 14- Virginia to get $7.5 million for ENERGY STAR appliance rebate program
Virginia will receive $7,454,197 out of $300 million in available ARRA funds for staterun rebate programs for consumer purchases of new ENERGY STAR qualified home appliances. ENERGY STAR qualified appliance categories eligible for rebates include: central air conditioners, heat pumps (air source and geothermal), boilers, furnaces (oil and gas), room air conditioners, clothes washers, dishwashers, freezers, refrigerators, and water heaters. Under the grant, each state submits a plan to specify which ENERGY STAR appliance categories will be included in its rebate program, the rebate level for each product type, how the rebates will be processed, and its plan for recycling old appliances. States are required to file an initial application expressing their intent to participate by August 15, 2009, followed by a full application by October 15, 2009. States will receive 10% of the funds after submitting the initial application with the balance awarded after their program plans are approved. DOE anticipates that substantially all funding will be awarded by November 30, 2009. States have up to February 2012 to expend all of the funds and will be responsible for covering 50% of the administrative costs. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 13- Virginia’s Weatherization Assistance Program gets $37.7 million
The Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) which administers the Weatherization Assistance Program in all of Virginia's localities, will receive a total of $37,653,710 in federal Recovery Act funds to weatherize 8,600 homes over the next three years. In selecting local weatherization agencies, the state gives preference to any community action agency or other public or nonprofit organization which has experience successfully administering the program. Local agencies will prioritize service to elderly and handicapped residents, families with children, high energy consuming households, and homes with an energy related crisis. Within those priorities local agencies are responsible for scheduling eligible clients to receive energy audits and weatherization services. After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, the state will receive an additional $47.1 million, for a total of more than $94 million. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
July 6- Application deadline extended for EECBG grant applicants
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has extended the application deadline for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program until August 10, 2009 at 8:00pm Eastern Time. Applicants are still encouraged to apply as early as possible and it is anticipated that DOE will issue further guidance within the next week. The extension will not delay the processing of those applications submitted by the initial deadline. In addition to submitting applications through FedConnect, applications may now submit applications via email to eecbg@netl.doe.gov. For additional information, please visit http://www.eecbg.energy.gov. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 25- Feds set application deadline for Energy Training Partnership Grants
The Employment and Training Administration set September 4 as the closing date for energy training partnership grants. Eligible applicants include private nonprofit organizations that must apply under one of two categories: 1) National labor-management organizations with local networks; or 2) Statewide or local nonprofit partnerships. The federal stimulus package makes $100 million available in grant funds for 20-30 projects ranging from approximately $2 to $5 million each. Projects will provide training and placement services in the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries for workers impacted by national energy and environmental policy, individuals in need of updated training related to the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries, and unemployed workers. Proposed projects must be developed and implemented through strategic partnerships. The funds are intended to provide training for workers, preparing them to enter the energy efficiency and renewable energy industries, as well as green occupations within other industries. Individuals eligible for training include workers impacted by national energy and environmental policy, individuals in need of updated training related to the energy efficiency and renewable energy
industries, and unemployed workers. A portion of the funds will be reserved for projects serving communities impacted by automotive-related restructuring. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 16- New resources available for energy block grant participants
The U.S. Department of Energy has new resources for eligible grant recipients under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. They are: EECBG Estimated Benefits Calculator: The Calculator was created to assist applicants in developing estimates of jobs created, energy saved, GHG emissions reduced, and renewable energy capacity installed for the Project Activity Sheets (B-1 Attachment of the Funding Opportunity Announcement) required with the application. See below for a dedicated webinar on how to use the Calculator. Example Project Activity Sheets: Many applicants have asked for models of filled-out Project Activity Sheets. DOE has posted five of them in addition to the example Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategies. These resources are on our new "Application Resources" page of the Solution Center. http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/solutioncenter/applicationresources/default.html DOE webinar series continues with three upcoming sessions starting on Wednesday. Registration is available here: https://eecbg.webex.com/mw0306l/mywebex/default.do?siteurl=eecbg Grant Application Process (Wednesday 6/17 and 6/24, 3-4 pm ET) EECBG Expected Benefits Calculator Overview (Thursday 6/18, 3-4 pm ET) DOE has also posted a searchable database of all the questions and answers from FedConnect. This can be accessed by clicking on the "Frequently Asked Questions" feature button in the lower right corner of the EECBG Program homepage at http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 16- Warner schedules energy stimulus funds summit July 10
U.S. Sen. Mark Warner will be the host of a summit open to local government representatives July 10 that will focus on how to access federal energy-related stimulus funds. Speakers from the U.S. Department of Energy, state agencies and private sector experts will explain how to maximize opportunities available through the American Recovery & Reinvestment Act for: programs related to weatherization and low-income families; local government initiatives; and innovations such as smart grid technology and renewable energy projects.
In addition to local governments, stakeholders representing organizations that work with low-income families, as well as segments of the private sector, have been invited to attend. The summit will be held July 10 at Hampton University in Hampton. Details regarding the exact location on campus and the starting time will be forthcoming. In the meantime, please mark the date on your calendar. If you plan to attend, RSVP via e-mail to the senator’s office by July 2. The address is rsvp@warner.senate.gov. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 11- DMME guidance on preparing EECBG grant applications
Direct grant recipients for EECBG funds under ARRA have to provide the following information in their applications: Describe how your government will coordinate and share information with the state in which you are located regarding activities carried out with grant funds to maximize energy efficiency and conservation benefits. Al Christopher, energy division director with the Virginia Department of Mines Minerals and Energy (DMME), gives the following guidance in filling out this portion of the application: All large localities with direct EECBG allocations have to answer this question and it would be a good idea for smaller localities that do not qualify for direct funding also to coordinate with the state and their neighbors to ensure maximum benefits from ARRA-funded investments in energy programs and projects. Here are some of the things the state and localities are doing to coordinate this effort, which should help you and others answer the question:
The Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy is making presentations and engaging local officials whenever possible. They try to use existing meetings of organizations that represent or include localities so that there is opportunity for two-way communication such as panel discussions or question and answer periods. They always leave behind electronic copies of presentations on Virginia energy programs for distribution by email or posting to websites. These meetings started in February and have occurred throughout Virginia, including Charlottesville, Danville, Henrico, Leesburg, Norfolk, Richmond, Virginia Beach, Wytheville and Washington. The Virginia Municipal League and Virginia Association of Counties have helped DMME reach even more localities by posting these presentations and links to the DMME website on their websites, which also include numerous other resources that support local efforts to obtain and use ARRA funds. http://www.stimulus.virginia.gov/ is the primary portal for information on ARRA-funded programs in The Commonwealth. There, you can find news about programs at all agencies and links to agency and other websites for more details on specific programs. The DMME website has a page on Recovery Act programs: http://www.dmme.virginia.gov/DE/arra1.shtml, which includes a summary and a link to download the entire State Energy Program ARRA application that was submitted to the U.S. Department of Energy on May 12. Virginia will submit its EECBG application no later than June 25 and also post it on the website. Meanwhile, the SEP application or one-
page summary provide an outline of the energy conservation programs that will be offered later this summer, following federal approval, on a statewide basis. DMME participates on utility advisory groups, an energy advisory committee created by VACo and numerous other organizations that facilitate coordination of energy efficiency and conservation initiatives with localities, utilities, businesses and other important stakeholders. DMME is engaging state and regional organizations with program support and communication channels with localities to improve efficiency of outreach, coordination and program delivery. These include the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, which administers the Community Development Block Grant program, and the Virginia Association of Planning District Commissions, which have supported or directed numerous statewide and regional programs. All of the above and other forms of outreach generate numerous daily one-to-one phone and email communications about ARRA energy conservation programs between DMME staff and local officials. These efforts will continue through June as the EECBG application is developed, intensify when SEP and EECBG programs are approved at the federal level and implementation begins, probably around August, and continue during the three-year life of the ARRA programs. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 11- Environmental internship program grants available
State, city, county and town governments, as well as special districts, school districts, higher education institutions and nonprofit groups are eligible to submit proposals to cooperatively administer a program for identifying and recruiting individuals or groups for assignments at various U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) stations. The USFWS has offices located throughout the U.S. The goal is to establish one or more five-year cooperative agreements under which USFWS staff will issue supplemental agreements to the selected recipients for managing the recruitment, screening, transportation, and payroll services for suitable and qualified individuals or groups at the participating USFWS stations. Each selected individual or group is given the opportunity to serve a seasonal on-site assignment, usually scheduled between June 1 and Sept. 30. The assignments would be located at a variety of field stations, including wildlife refuges, fish hatcheries, and ecological services offices. During the assignments, individuals or groups will be introduced to natural resources careers through “hands-on” work with, and training by, natural resource professionals employed by the USFWS. Participants will be introduced to various real-world conservation and rehabilitation activities such as invasive species management, habitat restoration, wildlife management, and public education and interpretation, mixed with informal and formal training sessions directed by USFWS. The goal is to help develop a new generation of enthused and effective conservationists and ecologists. The total amount of program funding is $5 million; the award ceiling is $500,000. The application deadline is September 30, 2010; for more information, please click here.
(Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 10- Webcast: Local Efficiency and Renewable Projects for ARRA Funds
The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Local Climate and Energy Program will host a 120 minute webcast on Thursday, June 11, at 2 pm (Eastern). This webcast will provide an overview of EPA energy efficiency and renewable energy programs and Department of Energy ARRA funding opportunities. It will also feature two communities showcasing their experience with integrating energy efficient practices into their municipal operations and their efforts to include renewable energy technologies on publicly owned property. Background information for the webcast is available at:
Draft Clean Energy Strategies Guide: On-site Renewable Energy Generation (PDF) Draft Clean Energy Strategies Guide: Energy Efficiency for Municipal Operations (PDF) (coming June 8) EPA State and Local Climate and Energy Recovery Resources EPA Green Power Partnership Energy Star for Government DOE Energy and Conservation Block Grants DOE Solar America Cities
To register for the webcast, send an e-mail to: CleanEnergyWebcast@icfi.com. Priority registration will be given to local and regional government staff and officials. For more information, please click here. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 10- ENERGY STAR Benchmarking Webcasts
The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR program is hosting a series of webcasts that explain how government officials can leverage EPA’s Portfolio Manager tool to assess the energy use of buildings and identify best improvement opportunities. The webcasts are scheduled for 1:00 PM (Eastern) on June 9, July 14, and August 11. Please register for these webcasts at https://energystar.webex.com (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 10- Energy’s Technical Assistance Project to host web seminar
The Department of Energy’s Technical Assistance Project (TAP) is geared towards state and local officials and sponsors web seminars that explore state policies and analysis tools that help advance their renewable energy and energy efficiency programs. The next seminar, "How to Use Clean Renewable Energy Bonds for Financing Renewable Energy Projects on Public Lands," is Wednesday, June 24, 2009, from 3: 00–4:15 PM (Eastern).
The presenter will be Claire Kreycik, an energy and financial markets analyst at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, Colorado. Kreycik focuses primarily on renewable energy project finance and policy tools that can drive capital for renewables. She also studies renewable energy certificate (REC) markets for voluntary green power markets and renewables portfolio standards. To register, please visit http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/wip/tap_webcasts.cfm. (Return to Energy and Environment Index) June 4- Department of Interior announces several ARRA grants The Department of Interior has announced the following grants that are available through American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds: Coastal Program Grant A total of $5 million is available for habitat restoration through the Coastal Program. The funds are available for projects that address high priority wetland, upland, or riparian habitats in selected geographic areas. Projects must provide direct benefits to Federal Trust species (i.e., migratory birds, threatened and endangered species, interjurisdictional fish, certain marine mammals, and species of international concern. The application deadline is September 30, 2009. For more information on applying, visit www.grants.gov; the funding opportunity number is ARRA-COASTAL-2009. National Fish Habitat Action Plan Program A total of $2 million is available for habitat restoration through the National Fish Habitat Action Plan Program. The funds are available for habitat restoration projects that address high priority aquatic habitats. Projects must provide direct benefits to Federal Trust species (i.e., migratory birds, threatened and endangered species, inter-jurisdictional fish, certain marine mammals, and species of international concern). The application deadline is September 30, 2009. For more information on applying, visit www.grants.gov; the funding opportunity number is RECOVERYACTNATIONALFISHHABITATPLAN. Fish Passage Program A total of $2.8 million is available for habitat restoration through the National Fish Passage Program to restore, enhance, and manage fish and wildlife habitats. The funds are available for projects that address high priority aquatic habitats. Projects must provide direct benefits to Federal Trust species (i.e., migratory birds, threatened and endangered species, inter-jurisdictional fish, certain marine mammals, and species of international concern).
The application deadline is September 30, 2009. For more information on applying, visit www.grants.gov; the funding opportunity number is RECOVERYACTFISHPASSAGE-2009. Earthquake Hazards Program, Seismic Upgrades Under the authority of the Earthquake Hazards Program, $ 5 million is available to replace equipment and upgrade earthquake monitoring systems. These upgrades will further the development of the Advanced National Seismic System. Systems to be upgraded will include existing urban, regional and national seismic networks. Eligible recipients must contribute to the upgrades to existing seismic network operations as part of the development of the Advanced National Seismic System. The application deadline is July 1, 2009. For more information on applying, visit www.grants.gov; the funding opportunity number is 09HQPA0021. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
June 4- EECBG Toolkit available from International Code Council
The International Code Council (ICC) has developed a Stimulus Toolkit that focuses on the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program (EECBG). The Toolkit contains numerous resources including: EECBG questions and answers Links to websites and other available resources Audio recordings of stimulus teleconferences PowerPoint presentations on EECBG Resources available from the Department of Energy
Check out the Toolkit for information on energy related funds available under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
May 28- Energy block grant webcasts set for May 29 and June 11
The U.S. Department of Energy has scheduled a third webcast in its series on the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. The webcast will focus on planning and strategy development for local governments. Tune in on either Friday, May 29, from 1:30-3:00 pm or on Thursday, June 11, from 1:30-3:00 pm. For information and free registration, please visit: http://www.eecbg.energy.gov The first two webcasts were on the following topics:
1. EECBG Planning and Strategy Development for Local Governments - Presentation on eligible activities planning for Local and State Governments. First broadcast on May 15, 2009 2. EECBG Grant Processing - Presentation on grant application process for all EECBG recipients. First broadcast on May 20, 2009. If you missed either of these webcasts, slides are available online at: http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/solutioncenter/webcasts/default.html (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
May 18- Phase I of the Rapid Deployment Energy Efficiency Toolkit released
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released Phase I of the RDEE Toolkit that highlights energy efficiency program funding opportunities through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Phase I is the second of three parts, the Program Planning Guide, which was released in early April provides information to ARRA funding recipients on the early stage of planning for 10 programs highlighted in the Toolkit. Phase I includes: Program/Portfolio Benchmarking Overview of Strategies for Customer Targeting and Marketing Training Needs and Resources Overview
Phase II is expected to be available in June of 2009 and will include the following: Marketing Strategies and Tactics for Each RDEE Program Examples of and Links to Specific Trainings Templates of and Links to RFPs and Proposal Evaluation Matrices Detailed Program Timelines Measurement and Verification Details For additional information, please visit http://www.epa.gov/solar/energyresources/ee_toolkit.html. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
May 18- USDA announces rural community facility projects
Earlier today the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released the list of rural community facility projects that will receive stimulus funds. Projects to be funded in Virginia include the following: Town of Big Stone Gap Town of Coeburn Town of Damascus Town of Glade Spring City of Galax Town of Lebanon $48,000 $50,000 $37,500 $30,000 $28,875 $50,000
Town of Marion $42,955 Town of Marion $30,290 City of Norton $46,000 Clinch River Health Services $50,000 Lonesome Pine Arts & Crafts $25,000 Mountain Empire Older Citizens Inc. $47,250 Norton Rescue Squad, Inc. $36,000 Town of Pulaski $27,500 Senior Services Center, Inc. $25,000 South Boston-Halifax Museum $13,200 Southwestern VA Second Harvest $25,000 (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
May 18- Model strategies added to Solution Center; DOE webcasts on EECBG
The Department of Energy’s Solution Center has been updated with model strategies for each of the eligible activities that cities and counties can participate in under the EECGB program: http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/solutioncenter/eligibleactivities/activity_1.html DOE experienced technical difficulties due to the large number of registrants for the May 15 webcast on EECBG planning and strategy development for local governments. If you registered and were unable to join the meeting, the slides should be emailed to everyone who registered for the webcast and also posted on the Solution Center website. The second webcast is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20 from 3:00-4:30 pm and will focus on the EECBG application process. For information and free registration, please visit: http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/solutioncenter/webcasts/default.html. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
May 13- Energy website revised; webcasts coming May 15 and May 20
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has expanded its Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) website to include an online Solution Center. The Solution Center catalogues energy efficiency and renewable energy activities that are eligible under the program. Each activity includes a definition, best practices and samples of completed projects for use as a reference. As part of the online Solution Center, DOE has scheduled a series of EECBG webcasts to provide additional information on applying for the program. The first webcast is Friday, May 15 from 1:30-3:00 pm and will detail EECBG planning and strategy development for local governments. The agenda includes: EECBG program overview and DOE's objectives for successful implementation Solutions Center online tour featuring its resources Discussion of sample strategies Brief presentation by 1-2 local governments to share their preliminary plans and strategies
Open Q&A
The second webcast is scheduled for Wednesday, May 20 from 3:00-4:30 pm and will focus on the EECBG application process. For information and free registration, please visit: http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/solutioncenter/webcasts/default.html. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
May 13- State Water Control Board approves final list of clean water projects
The State Water Control Board has approved the final list of localities that will receive federal stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act through the Virginia Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund for improving wastewater treatment plants and collection systems. A total of $76.9 million in grants is available from the federal government for these projects, going to 27 localities. The Department of Environmental Quality evaluated 294 requests, worth more than $1.3 billion, before submitting a recommendation to the water board. Specific criteria were used in DEQ's analysis, including anticipated environmental benefits, financial hardship and ability to begin the projects in the near future. A locality's unemployment rate also was a consideration. The following is a list of localities and allocated funding:
Location City of Lynchburg City of Richmond City of Richmond City of Richmond Alleghany County Town of Cape Charles Town of Big Stone Gap Town of New Market Town of Clintwood Town of Stanley Town of Orange Town of Hillsville Wise County Tazewell County Public Service Authority Smyth County Wythe County Smyth County Town of Fries Henry County Funding $24,960,000 $979,000 $1,678,000 $3,551,000 $10,000,000 $4,463,973 $1,836,909 $4,265,116 $803,985 $100,000 $2,117,500 $552,900 $1,037,000 $2,000,000 $861,428 $1,449,340 $9,300 $309,200 $705,000
Location Loudoun Water Loudoun Water New Kent County City of Bedford Fairfax County Westmoreland County City of Hopewell City of Lynchburg Town of Abingdon Town of Warrenton Augusta County Service Authority Town of Culpeper City of Covington Total funding
Funding $580,000 $1,196,330 $6,752,136 $165,330 $3,803,000 $890,000 $600,000 $400,000 $378,900 $400,000 $364,964 $260,000 $250,000 $77,720,311
(Return to Energy and Environment Index) April 29- 36 local water quality projects to receive federal stimulus funds After reviewing and ranking 294 requests to fund more than $1.3 billion in water quality improvement projects, the Department of Environmental Quality received final approval from the State Water Control Board yesterday to fund 32 projects in 27 localities (see FY 2009 Supplemental Stimulus Loan Authorizations for final list). The projects will help reduce nutrient pollution that wastewater plants discharge into Virginia waters. Other benefits of the projects include elimination of combined and sanitary sewer overflows and collection of wastewater in areas where septic systems are failing. Included in the awards are 13 “green infrastructure” projects costing $16 million that will make other environmental improvements, such as water reuse and alternative energy initiatives. For those smaller jurisdictions still seeking funding for wastewater treatment projects, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s rural development division will be releasing funding for more than $400 million (nationwide) in pending applications for Water and Waste grants as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Qualifying projects are for drinking water, sanitary sewer, solid waste and storm drainage facilities in rural areas and cities and towns with populations of 10,000 or less. Virginia will be allocated a specific dollar amount for this program with amount yet to be determined. For more information on qualifying projects and how to apply contact the USDA Virginia Water and Environmental Programs Director Carrie Schmidt at 804/287-1600 or carrie.schmidt@va.usda.gov. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) also announced this week the recipients of more than $615.8 million in water and environmental projects that are being funded immediately with federal funds provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The projects
will help provide safe drinking water and improved wastewater treatment systems for rural towns and communities in 34 states. In Virginia, the City of Norton will receive almost $3.2 million, and the Town of Rural Retreat will receive $734,000. Also, Wythe County will receive $1.065 million, and the Carroll County PSA will receive $6.3 million. This safe drinking water and wastewater treatment program is separate from the program managed by USDA’s Virginia Office. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 24- Labor secretary promises more action on green jobs skills training
In a statement made earlier this week before the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis said that the promise of green jobs is not only to help re-start the economy, but also to help make the country more energy independent. The Department of Labor is developing plans for use of the $500 million provided in the Recovery Act for research, labor exchange and job training projects that prepare workers for careers in energy efficiency and renewable energy industries, and will soon issue solicitations for grant applications. The Labor Department is “developing guidelines for solicitations, which will include requirements of community engagement, the formation of strong local and regional partnerships, as well as the identified leveraging of additional funds.” (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 24- Energy Department rolls out more funds for the Clean Cities Program
The Vice President announced this week $300 million in funding from the Recovery Act for state and local governments and transit authorities to expand the nation’s fleet of clean, sustainable vehicles and the fueling infrastructure necessary to support them. The money for the Clean Cities Alternative Fuel and Advanced Technology Vehicles Pilot Program is in addition to the $11 billion already announced to bolster state and local government energy efficiency programs and weatherize low-income homes. The Clean Cities Program offers $300 million to support at least 30 alternative fuels or advanced vehicles projects and requires a 50% participant cost share. Technologies eligible to be funded include a number of different light and heavy-duty vehicles, including hybrid, plug-in electric hybrid, hydraulic hybrid, electric, fuel cell, and compressed natural gas vehicles. In addition, projects can support refueling infrastructure for alternative fuels, including biofuels and natural gas. Other efforts eligible for funds include public awareness campaigns and training programs on alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles and infrastructure. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 24- National Park Service announces funding for 800 projects
The National Park Service will invest $750 million in nearly 800 projects nationwide to stimulate the economy through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Projects will preserve and protect national icons and historic landscapes, improve energy efficiency and renewable energy use, remediate abandoned mine lands, and provide $15 million in grants to
protect and restore buildings at historically black colleges and universities. Additional funding through the Federal Highway Administration will improve park roads for millions of visitors. In Virginia, the $27.2 million will fund 37 projects. The money can be used for these purposes: (1) construction to build, rehabilitate, or replace facilities; (2) deferred maintenance to repair, rehabilitate, or maintain critical facilities to extend their useful life; (3) energy efficient equipment replacement to replace aging vehicles, heavy equipment, and HVAC systems; (4) trails to make them safer and to extend their useful life; (5) abandoned mine lands to remedy serious health and safety concerns at the sites; and (6) road maintenance to preserve park roads and parkways and rehabilitate deteriorated road networks. Click here for a list of the eligible projects in Virginia. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 23- $300 Million for Alternative Fueled Vehicles Pilot Grant Program
The U.S. Department of Energy's Clean Cities Program is accepting applications for the Alternative Fuel and Advanced Technology Vehicles Pilot Program. The four year program includes two years of data collection and two years in which projects must be completed. Up to 30 competitive grants ranging from $5 million to $15 million, with a 50 percent matching requirement, will be awarded to states, local governments, and metropolitan transportation authorities. Eligible projects include those that advance alternative fuel vehicles, alternative fuels, public awareness campaigns and training programs. First round of applications due May 29, 2009 Second round of applications due September 30, 2009 Click here for further information: Application (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 9- Treasury issues guidance on energy bonds
The U.S. Department of the Treasury has issued interim guidance for qualified energy conservation bonds (QECB’s): Notice 2009-29 Qualified Energy Conservation Bond Allocations for 2009. Virginia may issue $80.6 million out of $3.2 billion allocated by the Treasury for QECB’s. A portion of the state’s allocated funds are to be proportionally distributed to cities and counties with a population over 100,000. The QECB’s must be used for qualified conservation purposes, which include: reducing energy consumption in publicly-owned buildings, implementing green community programs, rural development of electricity from renewable resources, mass commuting facilities, energy efficiency research and public education campaigns to promote energy efficiency. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 9- Rapid Deployment Energy Efficiency (RDEE) toolkit
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued the first of three parts of a RDEE Toolkit that is being developed by the EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) to highlight energy efficiency program funding opportunities through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The Toolkit provides program design and implementation guides for 10 broadly applicable energy efficiency programs: 1. Home Performance with ENERGY STAR 2. ENERGY STAR Labeled Products 3. Residential Efficient Heating and Cooling 4. Residential Energy Audit and Direct Installation 5. Non-Residential On-Site Energy Manager 6. Non-Residential Prescriptive Rebates 7. Non-Residential Retro-commissioning 8. Non-Residential Benchmarking and Performance 9. Non-Residential Custom Incentives 10. Commercial Food Service Efficiency The first portion of the Toolkit is the Program Planning Guide that provides information to ARRA funding recipients on the early stage of planning for the 10 programs highlighted in the Toolkit. The Program Planning Guide is divided into five main sections: 1) an overview of the stimulus package; 2) considerations in program selection and budgeting; 3) an overview of the RDEE programs; 4) a framework for program selection and budgeting; and 5) a detailed snapshot of each of the 10 programs. The second part of the Toolkit containing more information on implementing the 10 programs is scheduled to be released May 15. For additional information, please visit http://www.epa.gov/solar/energy-resources/ee_toolkit.html. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 9- Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant deadline approaching
As a reminder, Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) applications for direct grant recipients* are due June 25, 2009. For more information on the application process visit http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/. Virginia localities not identified as direct grant recipients are eligible to apply directly to the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals & Energy (DMME) for EECBG funds. DMME is currently developing its program and application process. The agenda for VML’s Go Green Virginia Regional Forums (May 7 in Richmond and May 8 in Roanoke) will include sessions on applying for EECBG funds for both direct grant
recipients and those applying to DMME. For more information on the forums, including registration, visit www.gogreenva.org.
* This includes the following VML members: Albemarle, Alexandria, Arlington, Blacksburg, Charlottesville, Chesapeake, Danville, Hampton, Harrisonburg, Henrico, Leesburg, Loudoun, Lynchburg, Manassas, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Richmond City, Roanoke City, Roanoke County, Stafford, Suffolk, and Virginia Beach
(Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 9- NLC Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant webcast April 14
The National League of Cities (NLC) is hosting a webcast to provide local officials with the latest information on applying for Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funds and key steps localities can take to prepare for their use: When: Tuesday, April 14 from 12:00 – 1:00 pm EDT Speakers include: NLC President Kathleen Novak, Mayor, Northglenn, CO Carolyn Berndt, Senior Legislative Counsel, NLC Gil Sperling, Program Manager, Office of Weatherization and Intergovernmental Programs, U.S. Department of Energy George Hawkins, Director, Department of the Environment, Washington, DC There is no charge, but participants must pre-register at www.NLCTV.org. If you are unable to participate, the webcast will be available on NLCTV’s website by April 15. Go to www.NLCTV.org to view the webcast. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
April 1- DEQ publishes priority list for stimulus-funded clean water projects
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) published for comment on March 25 the “FY09 Intended Use Plan” of project priorities for loan assistance from federal stimulus dollars. Virginia is to receive $77 million from the federal stimulus package for state clean water revolving loan fund projects. According to federal requirements, at least $40 million of these funds must be distributed in the form of additional subsidization and $16 million must go to projects that include green infrastructure, water or energy efficiency improvements, or other environmentally innovative activities. DEQ received 294 applications requesting a total of $1.4 billion. The attached draft project priority list of applications is being presented for public review and comment. The draft list is oversubscribed, and will have to be pared to fit the $77 million allocation. A public meeting will be held on April 15, 2009, in Richmond at DEQ’s offices. The public comment and review period will end immediately following the public meeting. Comments or questions should be directed to Mr. Walter Gills, DEQ Construction Assistance Program, P.O. Box 1105, Richmond, VA 23218. His e-mail address is wagills@deq.virginia.gov.
(Return to Energy and Environment Index)
March 26- Virginia will receive over $60 million for Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grants
Virginia will receive some $224.9 million under the Recovery Act for weatherization ($94.1 million), the state energy program ($70 million), and energy conservation ($60 million). The federal Department of Energy is managing the funds, and announced today the formula grants for projects that reduce total energy use and fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency. The funding will support energy audits and energy efficiency retrofits in residential and commercial buildings, the development and implementation of advanced building codes and inspections, and the creation of financial incentive programs for energy efficiency improvements. Other activities eligible for use of grant funds include transportation programs that conserve energy, projects to reduce and capture methane and other greenhouse gas emissions from landfills, renewable energy installations on government buildings, energy efficient traffic signals and street lights, deployment of Combined Heat and Power and district heating and cooling systems, and others. Below is a table identifying VML members and the amounts to be received under the program.
Name Virginia (state program) Alexandria Arlington Blacksburg Charlottesville Chesapeake Danville Hampton Harrisonburg Leesburg Lynchburg Manassas Newport News Norfolk Portsmouth Richmond City Roanoke City Suffolk Virginia Beach Albemarle Henrico Loudoun Roanoke County Stafford Allocation 16,145,300 1,372,800 2,085,100 186,900 195,300 2,046,900 202,200 1,388,800 206,200 164,700 740,000 159,400 1,757,300 2,451,100 1,002,000 2,106,200 963,700 741,100 4,042,000 406,000 2,791,100 2,215,600 372,800 484,300
$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $
(Return to Energy and Environment Index)
March 20- The deadline to apply for stimulus funds for drinking water is March 27th
Under the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act the VA Department of Health is eligible to apply for $20.7 million through the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund (DWSRF) Program. VDH’s proposal to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will be based upon requests for funds VDH receives from owners of publicly and privately owned community waterworks agencies. All construction activities related to the drinking water infrastructure are generally eligible. VDH sent information about the availability of DWSRF earlier this month to all potentially eligible owners of private and publicly waterworks facilities. Here are at least a few of the basic facts about the ARRA program being administered through the Drinking Water State Revolving Loan Fund: Owners of publicly and privately owned, community waterworks or nonprofit nontransient noncommunity waterworks are eligible to receive funds. Federally funded waterworks are ineligible. All projects must begin construction or award a construction contract by February 16, 2010. VDH will consider eligible projects that submit plans and specifications for VDH’s approval by May 1, 2009. To apply for ARRA funds owners of waterworks are to submit a DWRSF application for construction to VDH by March 27, 2009. One application for each waterworks must be submitted.
For additional information (with frequently asked questions) about ARRA funding through DWSRF, please refer to this web site: http://www.vdh.state.va.us/drinkingwater/financial/economicstimulusfunds.htm VDH’s contact for questions about this program is Steve Pellei, Office of Drinking Water, VA Department of Health, (804)864-7489. Email: S.pellei@vdh.virginia.gov (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
March 13- Funding coming for water, wastewater, and waste projects
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s rural development division will release funding for more than $400 million (nationwide) in pending applications for Water and Waste grants as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). Qualifying projects are for drinking water, sanitary sewer, solid waste and storm drainage facilities in rural areas and cities and towns with populations of 10,000 or less. Virginia will be allocated a specific dollar amount (to be determined sometime next week) for this program.
For more information on qualifying projects and how to apply contact the USDA Virginia Water and Environmental Programs Director Carrie Schmidt at 804/287-1600 or carrie.schmidt@va.usda.gov. (Return to Energy and Environment Index)
March 11- Department of Energy has dedicated a webpage for Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grants available through the recovery act
The webpage includes information on eligibility, allocation of funds, and how to apply: http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/wip/block_grants.cfm (Return to Energy and Environment Index)