Sánchez Commends Administration's Investments in Local Energy Efficiency Improvements

Funding to Support Jobs, Cut Energy Bills, and Increase Energy Independence

Washington, DC - Rep. Linda Sánchez today commended the Obama Administration's plan to invest $3.2 billion in energy efficiency and conservation projects in U.S. cities, including over $350,000,000 in southern California.

"These investments represent part of the reason I worked hard to help pass the Recovery and Reinvestment Act," said Rep. Linda Sánchez. "These are genuine solutions that will strengthen our economy and create jobs at the local level."

The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, funded by President Obama's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will provide formula grants for projects that reduce total energy use and fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency nationwide.

"I am pleased that the City of Cerritos plans to use funds to install new energy systems for the very popular Cerritos Indoor Swim and Fitness Center, which will save an estimated $75,000 a year in energy costs," continued Sánchez.

Cities and counties will receive nearly $1.9 billion under the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program, and states and territories will receive nearly $770 million. States will receive and administer funds for those counties and cities that are not large enough to qualify for direct DOE funding.

"It is great to see cities like Whittier preparing to use these funds to save energy by replacing street lights and parking lot lights with energy efficient LED lights," remarked Sánchez.

More information on the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program is available on https://apps1.eere.energy.gov/wip/block_grants.cfm.