March 26, 2009

Re:  Federal Stimulus Funding U.S. Department of Energy

Dear Mayor:

The U.S. Department of Energy has released guidance and funding allocations for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant. General program information can be found on their website, http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/.

Formula grant allocations are available at http://www.eecbg.energy.gov/grantalloc.html

The application process for formula grants is open, and municipalities can apply through June 25. Using Reference Number DE-FOA-0000013, download applications at www.grants.gov, and submit applications at www.fedconnect.net/.

A couple of details to keep in mind: (See guidance for specifics.)

1. Based on funding levels, formula grants will be released in stages.
2. Local governments will be required to submit a proposed Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy either with the application or within 120 days after the effective date of the award.
3. Entities are required to obligate/commit all funds within 18 months from the effective date of the award.  In the event funds are not obligated/committed within 18 months, DOE reserves the right to “de-obligate” the funds and cancel the award.  
4. The Recovery Act gives preference to activities that can be started and completed expeditiously, including a goal of using at least 50 percent of the funds made available by it for activities that can be initiated not later than June 17, 2009. 

We thank Carolyn Coleman, Director of Federal Relations for the National League of Cities, for this information.

Very truly yours,

 

William G. Dressel, Jr.
Executive Director