$1 million investment would help implement renewable energy plan, save taxpayers money

WASHINGTON -- Rep. Leonard Lance (NJ-07) announced Thursday that the House of Representatives gave its final approval for legislation that includes Lance’s request for $1 million for Branchburg to become more energy efficient.

The Senate is expected to give its final approval of the legislation later this week and the bill will then be sent to the President for his signature into law. Earlier this year, Lance announced the funds with Branchburg Mayor Jim Leonard, members of the Branchburg Township Committee and other community leaders. He said today’s action means the funding is at the finish line.

“We are at the finish line and that means $1 million is heading soon to Branchburg,” said Lance. “This means the township can move forward with its plans to be more energy efficiency, help the environment and save money for taxpayers in the long-term.”

“We are thrilled to be finally nearing the end of a long legislative process and grateful that Congressman Lance has fought hard for Branchburg every step of the way,” said Mayor Jim Leonard. “These funds will not only help us identify places where our community can be more energy efficient, but it will also help us reduce our energy costs and substantially increase our efforts to go green. This investment will be a big win for the taxpayers of Branchburg who will benefit from lower property taxes down the road. I’m am pleased we are nearing the end in a long federal process and proud that Congressman”

Lance said the funds would underwrite the costs for the township to launch an energy audit of all township buildings and facilities, develop a plan to make the energy efficiency improvements and then install solar power panels to Branchburg Township buildings and ground facilities. Once completed, the overall energy efficiencies would help save the taxpayer funds with a reduced energy bill.

Mayor Leonard also pledged that the investment would be used in the most efficient and effective way, assuring the funding will provide the best return on investment for the taxpayers.

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