Hundreds of millions of dollars in federal stimulus money will help lead to the creation of more Florida green jobs.
Gov. Charlie Crist recently announced that more than $168 million in federal economic stimulus funds will be awarded to state and local governments through the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program.
The program allows the federal government to provide grants to local governments, states, territories and Indian tribes to fund projects that reduce energy use, greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency.
“I have made increased energy efficiencies and reduced greenhouse gas emissions priorities in my administration,” Crist said in a press release. “These funds represent a remarkable opportunity to invest in the cheapest, cleanest and fastest energy solution – energy efficiency.
“I encourage Florida’s local governments to utilize these funds in support of projects that will save tax dollars, strengthen our state’s economy and create jobs,” Crist continued.
The program was authorized by the federal government under the Energy Independence and Security Act, which was signed into law in 2007. However, the program didn’t receive funding until the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was passed this year. The program is administered by the Department of Energy.
In Florida, 17 counties will get $74 million, 69 cities will receive $64 million, two tribal governments will take in $243,000 and the governor’s Energy Office will see $30 million. The state also will distribute $18 million in sub-grants.
The funding will support energy reviews and efficiency modifications in residential and commercial buildings, advanced building codes and inspections and financial incentive programs for energy efficiency improvements. Other activities eligible grant funding 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 lighting for traffic signals and street lights and other actions that conserve energy.
Tags: Florida green jobs