Federal Dollars Fuel Local Efficiency: Cities Ready to Lead

Washington, D.C. - In a new report released today, ACEEE presented profiles of over 40 municipal energy efficiency programs as a guide for cities and counties preparing to implement federally-funded energy efficiency and conservation plans.

“The passage of the ARRA economic stimulus package was the largest single investment in energy efficiency to date, and the first time federal money has been directed specifically to municipal energy efficiency efforts,” said ACEEE policy researcher Michael Sciortino, referring to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). “It is essential that local governments use proven program models like those featured in this report to ensure success.”

Cities and counties have long been active developers of successful energy efficiency programs, and with the release of EECBG funds, local governments are poised to further their critical role. ACEEE’s new report, Energy Efficiency Program Options for Local Governments under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 examines a number of innovative energy efficiency programs implemented by American towns and cities prior to the passage of ARRA. The EECBG program will dispense more than 3 billion dollars to cities and states, creating jobs while improving U.S. energy efficiency through a variety of initiatives, including building retrofits, incentives, and audit programs. Some block grant recipients have already received funding to execute their chosen “shovel-ready” projects; however, many cities and towns are still waiting to put project plans into action. 

“The EECBG program is an opportunity for all municipalities to become leaders in energy efficiency,” said Sarah Black, report lead author. “This report provides concrete examples of how American towns and cities can take action now to launch innovative and meaningful programs that save energy and create jobs.”

The full report is available for free download here or a hard copy can be purchased for $25 plus $5 postage and handling from ACEEE Publications, 529 14th Street N.W., Suite 600, Washington, D.C. 20045, phone 202-507-4017.