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Bringing Recovery Funds Home: An Activist Toolkit
Yesterday, the Department of Energy (DOE) announced plans to invest $3.2 billion in energy efficiency and conservation projects in U.S. cities, counties, and states!
To help activists work with their local government to bring these funds into their communities, the Cool Cities staff has created "Bringing Recovery Funds Home: An Activist Toolkit for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants." Please take action today on this historic opportunity.
The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program (EECBG), funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), will provide grants for projects that reduce total energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, and improve energy efficiency nationwide. The funding will support energy audits and energy efficiency retrofits in residential and commercial buildings, implementation of advanced building codes, and financial incentive programs for energy efficiency improvements. Other eligible activities include transportation programs, renewable energy installations on government buildings, and LED traffic signals and street lights.
DOE's has also announced nearly $8 billion in new funding for their Weatherization and State Energy Programs. These programs both offer energy efficiency and clean energy funding opportunities for local governments. Cool Cities Activist Toolkits and more information for these programs will be sent out soon.
More Recovery Funding Resources
Visit the DOE's Recovery website for a detailed breakdown of the funding by state, county, city and tribal government.
For continued updates on the EECBG Program, check back frequently at Cool Cities Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant forum.
Be a "CoolTube" Star!
We’ve extended the deadline to submit your Cool Cities videos to Monday, April 6. It's as simple as using your digital camera or cell phone to share your group's story! We can’t wait to hear your stories. Everything from a 30 second summary of your best Cool Cities success story to a tour of a local green building is what we're looking for! Once you're ready to e-mail your video, e-mail Stephanie at stephanie.cutts@sierraclub.org for instructions. In the meantime check out the Cool Cities Campaign Channel for ideas and inspiration.
Conference Call: A Closer Look at Conservation Block Grant Guidelines
Join ICLEI and Gil Sperling from the U.S. Department of Energy to discuss Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Guidelines. The conference call will be held March 31, at 11:30 a.m. EST. To register visit ICLEI Events and make sure to pass this announcement along to your local government representatives!
Earth Day Idea: National Conversation on Climate Action
Is your city participating in the National Conversation on Climate Action on April 22? If not, ask your mayor or county leaders to register an event in your community.