Washington, D.C. – Vice President Joe Biden and Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced a $3.2 billion investment in energy efficiency and conservation projects in U.S. cities, counties, and states.  The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will provide formula grants for projects that reduce total energy use and fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency.

Cities and counties throughout Michigan, as well as the State Energy Office, will receive over $76.6 million in total energy efficiency funding.  Oakland County will receive $4.9 million.  Cities throughout Oakland County will receive millions more.

“This is a tremendous boost for energy efficiency projects that will lower energy costs and stimulate our economy,” said Congressman Gary Peters.  “These grants will fund various energy efficiency, conservation, and renewable energy projects that will give our communities the opportunity to improve their environment and grow their economies.  Whether through retrofitting old buildings, capturing greenhouse gases from landfills or installing energy efficient lighting, these investments will allow our communities to create new green jobs that will power the new energy economy.”