On June 24, 2009, the Department of Energy (“DOE”) announced more than $204 million in Recovery Act funding to ten states for their State Energy Programs ("SEPs").
Here is a summary of how the monies will be used in Florida, Idaho, and Kansas:
Florida’s SEP will fund energy efficiency, renewable energy, and alternative fuels projects in the state. Florida will deploy these funds through several loan and grant programs to promote the commercialization of new clean technologies. Florida was awarded $50.4 million, and will receive an additional $63 million after demonstrating successful implementation of its SEP.
Idaho’s SEP will launch a set up new programs, including the Renewable Energy Business Development Program, to further renewable energy development in the state while creating new jobs and stimulating the economy. Further, new zoning regulations will be created to attract renewable energy developers and projects. Idaho received $11.4 million and will receive more than $14 million in additional funding after demonstrating successful implementation of its SEP.
Kansas’s SEP will launch several initiatives to boost energy efficiency in commercial buildings, increase financial options for renewable energy, and increase cost savings for individual homeowners in its state. A portion of the money will also be deployed to create a new utility rate price plan and to fund an energy audit rebate plan. Kansas received $15.3 million and expects to receive an additional $19 million after demonstrating successful implementation of its SEP.
My colleagues are blogging on the other states that received funds.