North Carolina is more energy-efficient than it was in 2009. Homes, schools, college campuses, businesses and government facilities are using less energy, saving on utility bills and generating more power from renewable sources as a result of grants distributed by the N.C. Energy Office and funded through the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act.
North Carolinians can learn more about the impact of these initiatives at an updated website launched by the Energy Office, a division of the N.C. Department of Commerce. The site includes details of more than 30 projects throughout the state. The impact of these programs has been widespread.
“Someone you know, a building or business you’ve visited or an activity you’ve participated in has probably benefited from an Energy Office Recovery Act grant,” said Governor Bev Perdue. “This unique website tells the stories of these projects and how they not only are making us more energy-efficient, but saving tax dollars when energy costs are uncertain and growing.”
Through the federal Recovery Act, North Carolina received $106.6 million for energy-related projects along with $132 million for the state’s Weatherization Assistance Program. Of those dollars, $20.9 million, from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, were directed to local governments, public schools and community colleges (an additional $37.7 million went directly to designated local governments through a population-based formula). The State Energy Program provided $75.9 million for grants that ranged from workforce development and assistance to commercial, industrial and non-profit groups to support for state and local government energy-efficiency initiatives. Read more.