City receives federal award to fund local energy-efficiency upgrades
Published on March 06, 2024
The City of Gainesville has been named the recipient of an $189,820 Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program award from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The funding will be used to provide rebates to 25-30 low-income households for energy efficiency upgrades through Gainesville Regional Utilities’ (GRU) Low-Income Energy Efficiency Program.
Gainesville is one of 30 communities in the EECBG Program’s fourth round of funding to receive an award that is aimed at improving energy efficiency, reducing carbon emissions and lowering overall energy use while helping residents save money on energy in the long run.
“This award is not just a win for our community but also a crucial step towards our goal of net zero emissions by 2045,” said Gainesville Chief Climate Officer Dan Zhu.
The program funding includes more than 14 categories of eligible use, enabling communities to invest in projects that align with efforts already in motion to lower energy costs, plan for a clean energy future and reduce energy burden.
"Thanks to President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the Department of Energy is continuing to meet communities where they are, and support them where they need it the most,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm.
“These dollars fit right into the energy plans that cities, counties, Tribes and states already have to ensure they are set up for success as they pursue a clean energy future,” she said.
The recent EECBG Program awards were announced Feb. 28. Since the first round was announced in October 2023, the EECBG Program has awarded $91.51 million to 97 communities.
The EECBG award aligns with the City’s strategic goal to create a sustainable community by addressing climate change and reducing the carbon footprint of the City and of the community.
“Our commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency is stronger than ever, and this grant represents a significant milestone in our journey towards a more sustainable future,” said Zhu.