Salt Lake City — Utah recently ranked fifth in the nation for energy efficiency, and the Utah Office of Energy Development (OED) is poised to push that ranking even higher. OED has been awarded $1,811,730 through the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant program. OED will leverage its EECBG funding to support energy efficiency and conservation projects in government buildings across the state, including in rural areas.

The EECBG program offers funding to Utah cities, counties, special districts and municipalities for energy audits and projects designed to cut emissions and reduce energy consumption. Funding can be used for a range of retrofit or conservation projects, such as improved insulation, advanced HVAC systems and LED lighting.

“EECBG brings Utah a double benefit,” said OED Acting Director Dusty Monks. “Our schools, libraries, community centers and government buildings are going to be more prudent users of the state’s energy resources with this funding, and visitors and employees will enjoy a more comfortable environment through improved temperature control and lighting. A third benefit is the freeing up of limited state and government budgets. EECBG will lead to savings that can be used for other public priorities and investments, ultimately saving taxpayer dollars.”

The DOE estimates that EECBG-funded modernization and infrastructure improvement projects will deliver energy savings of 20% - 30% or more. Approximately 40% of the program’s funding will be allocated to traditionally underserved communities, including rural areas of Utah. To apply for funding, interested parties should visit [official website] and follow the application guidelines. Applicants can apply for funding for energy audits, retrofits or both, and they have the option to apply for multiple projects.

“Beyond the immediate benefits of greater comfort and lower utility bills in small- to mid-sized government buildings, EECBG’s environmentally friendly upgrades will lower carbon emissions and other pollutants, fostering cleaner, more sustainable communities,” said Program Manager Anna Holmstead. “EECBG is perfectly aligned with Utah’s focus on protecting human health and quality of life and our long-term commitment to sustainability.”

The application deadline for EECGB funding is November 15, 2024.

DOE, Achieving Energy Savings in Small- and Medium-Sized Public Facilities: A Strategic Approach to Prioritizing and Financing (2021) | Courtesy of OED

About OED

OED is the state’s primary office responsible for energy and mineral development. The office is charged with developing and implementing energy policy and resources, creating energy-related educational and workforce development programs, and promoting energy efficiency and infrastructure.

About the DOE

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is a federal agency responsible for advancing the nation’s energy policy, promoting energy security, and fostering innovation in energy technologies. Its core mission includes managing energy production and regulation, promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, and ensuring the safety and security of nuclear materials. The DOE also conducts cutting-edge scientific research to address energy challenges, reduce environmental impacts, and support economic growth through sustainable energy solutions. Additionally, it oversees national laboratories and plays a critical role in addressing climate change and maintaining the country’s leadership in energy innovation.