The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant

The Grant can be found on the fed connect website by searching the reference number DE-FOA-0000013. Click here to search public records.


"Energy efficiency policies are a key strategy for keeping the cost of climate change legislation to modest levels."
Steven Nadel, Executive Director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.

As part of the the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, the Department of Energy (DOE) was appropriated $3.2 billion to Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants (EECBG). http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/news/news_detail.cfm/news_id=12366

The main purpose of the EECBG is as follows and it is paramount to incorporate an energy efficiency and conservation strategy into the funding proposal with focus on:
  • Reducing fossil fuel emissions in a manner that is environmentally sustainable and, to the maximum extent practicable, maximizes benefits for local and regional communities;
  • Reducing the total energy use of the eligible entities; and
  • Improving energy efficiency in the building sector, the transportation sector, and other appropriate sectors.

It will be important to establish the right approach to fulfill all requirements and produce the maximum return of the EECBG money which includes the following aspects:

  • Developing a far-reaching long-term carbon strategy which will enhance the county/city's sustainability efforts:
    • Accurately monitor resources and emissions through energy audits
    • Setting the right baseline
    • Sourcing the right carbon footprinting protocol
  • Implement long-lasting and real energy reduction projects:
    • Buildings:
      • Retrofits of residential and commercial buildings
      • Advanced building codes and inspections
      • Financial incentive programs for energy efficiency improvements
    • Energy Distribution
    • Material conservation
    • Reduction and capture of methane and other greenhouse gases
    • Traffic signals and street lighting
    • Renewable energy
  • Developing the right plan to potentially commercialize carbon credits from GHG reductions such as energy efficient retrofits and upgrades, energy efficiency in agriculture, GHG capture and many more.

With expert insights of the energy and carbon markets, Carbon Solutions America is prepared to support local governments achieving the maximum return from EECBGs including grant writing assistance and RFP developments.

Click here to view the entire grant.