Energy

DNR and State Energy Office provide stimulus information on web

The state Department of Natural Resources’ State Energy Office has been fielding some questions on what the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) means for Louisiana.

DNR Secretary Scott Angelle said his staff will be working to keep the stakeholders and the public informed on the progress of the plans for the funds.

“This funding represents an opportunity for our state to take strong steps forward in our efforts to increase energy efficiency and diversify our sources of energy,” Angelle said. “It is appropriate that we make sure the people of the state know how it is to be used. Because the wise and effective use of this funding is critical to our state, I have directed DNR Deputy Secretary Lori LeBlanc to take charge of the preparation and execution of the plan.”

LeBlanc said that before funds are available, the plan for expending the funding must be approved by the U. S. Department of Energy. She said she expects to have the state’s response and plan to the federal government by May, which is part of the Act’s requirements.

Louisiana is receiving $71.6 million in stimulus money to the State Energy Office for programs and local governments in Louisiana will be receiving about $13.8 million in Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) monies. Funds are to be spent mainly on energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Most funding must be obligated by the end of FY 2010.

Other federal economic stimulus funding for energy projects dealing with training, education, and weatherization will be provided through the Louisiana Workforce Commission, Louisiana Housing Finance Agency, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Office.

The DNR website will be the primary place to go for information updates and also to ask questions of the Energy Office staff by e-mail.