The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) funded for only the second time in history, the Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. Kentucky's allocation under the EECBG program is $2,237,940.
The purpose of the EECBG Program is to assist eligible state, local, and tribal governments in implementing strategies to:
Reduce fossil fuel emissions in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and, to the maximum extent practicable, maximizes benefits for local and regional communities;
Reduce the total energy use of the eligible entities;
Improve energy efficiency in the transportation sector, the building sector, and other appropriate sectors;
Build a clean and equitable energy economy that prioritizes disadvantaged communities and promotes equity and inclusion in workforce opportunities and deployment activities.
The Office of Energy Policy has made three awards to local governments under this program:
Streetlighting Upgrade Project
The city of Murray has received a $1 million grant to replace streetlights and improve public safety within the city. “The city of Murray is thrilled,” said Marisa Stewart, project manager/building official for the city. “This will certainly make our streets much safer for our citizens, provide improved visibility at intersections and reduce the cost of electricity, which will in turn allow us to use the savings to address other needs.”
Wolfe County Energy Efficiency Upgrades Project
Wolfe County will use a $384,570 grant to replace windows and install solar panels on the county courthouse. “We are very excited to begin this project,” said Bryan Faulkner, solid waste coordinator for the county. “The courthouse is a landmark in our community. The main section was completed in 1917 and has remained largely unchanged since renovations in 1977. This project will help us reduce energy costs and ensure the sustainability of this historic building.”
The Glasgow Landfill Bridge Project
The city has received a $600,289 grant to improve transportation and public safety near the Glasgow Landfill. The project includes the construction of a bridge across the South Fork of Beaver Creek. Glasgow City Administrator April Russell said increased use of the landfill has created the need for improved access: “This grant for bridge construction is a tremendous opportunity that will help prevent damage to several miles of county and state roadways which would otherwise be affected by heavy equipment.”
For additional information about Kentucky’s EECBG program, contact Carol.Stringer@ky.gov, Kentucky Office of Energy Policy, or call (502) 782-7078.