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DNR awards energy improvement loan to Jefferson Parish for work at the Lake Cataouatche Pumping Station

Baton Rouge- The Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) announced this week approval of a $2.1 million low-interest energy efficiency loan to support Jefferson Parish’s efforts to modernize and upgrade its flood-protection system.

Jefferson Parish plans to utilize the funds to update Lake Cataouatche Pumping Station No. 1 including the replacement of two existing pump engines, both in service for more than 30 years, with more modern engines that can provide both cost savings through more efficient use of energy and less environmental impact through lower emissions.  The proposed project also includes changes to the discharge piping that will allow more rain water to be moved by the pumps with less energy required to do so. “These funds allow us to upgrade our drainage pumping equipment quickly at this station and provide for better flood protection and increase the station reliability,” said Public Works Director Kazem Alikhani.

DNR Office of Technology Assessment’s energy efficiency loan program, funded through the U.S. Department of Energy, is intended to assist in providing funding for qualified projects that demonstrate potential for savings through more efficient use of energy.

DNR Technology Assessment Director Tom Harris noted, “the department encourages communities to take a look at the possible benefits of the loan program and take Jefferson parish’s excellent example of saving energy, costs, and improving public safety, all at the same time.” The recipients of such low-interest loans are getting direct benefits, and the department works with public agencies and the private sector throughout the application process.

The loan program is part of the office’s overall mission to promote and encourage the use of energy efficient, environmentally responsible and economically feasible technologies that reduce our nation's dependence on foreign energy supplies, conserve our natural resources and protect the environment.

DNR’s loan solicitation for this cycle was open to applicants from local governments, industry, non-profit agencies and commercial groups, who were required to provide written project proposals to be eligible for a 10-year loan with an interest rate of 2 percent.