June 26, 2009

Re:  EECBG APPLICATION DEADLINE EXTENDED

Dear Mayor:

We have just learned that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has extended the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) application deadline until Aug. 10 at 8 pm. According to DOE, they will also be releasing more guidance on this next week. DOE urges applicants to apply as early as possible.

The notice is available at www.fedconnect.net, under Reference Number DE-FOA-0000013.

Originally, applications for direct Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) were due to be submitted by 8: P.M. (EDST), yesterday, June 25.

DOE had previously announced an amendment to the EECBG Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) regarding the use of FedConnect. DOE prefers that applications be submitted though FedConnect, and in the event that you are having difficulties uploading your application using this system, please call FedConnect Support at 1-800-899-6665. However, if FedConnect cannot resolve your issue, applications may also now be submitted via email to eecbg@netl.doe.gov, with the subject line “EECBG Application (Unique Identification Code).” Please note: if you have submitted your application to FedConnect already and received a confirmation, please do NOT also send your application via email, so as to avoid duplicates.

Additionally, DOE has established an appeals process for the EECBG program. The scope of appealable issues is limited to DOE determinations of eligibility for direct formula grants for units of local governments. Appeals will be adjudicated by the DOE Office of Hearings and Appeals. If an appeal is successful, the applicant will be provided the opportunity to submit an application consistent with the requirements announced in the EECBG Funding Opportunity Announcement.

We thank the National League of Cities’ (NLC) Senior Legislative Counsel, Carolyn Berndt, for keeping us up to the minute on this important funding opportunity.

For more information, call Jon Moran at 609-695-3481, ext. 121.

Very truly yours,

William G. Dressel, Jr.
Executive Director