South Jersey Awarded $3.3M for Energy Efficiency Projects 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Andrews announced that the Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded South Jersey nearly $3.3 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to implement energy efficiency projects. Awarded under the DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program, these funds will support local efforts to lower energy use, reduce carbon pollution, and create green jobs.

Camden, Gloucester and Burlington Counties were each named as recipients of EECBG formula grants, in addition to three local municipalities. Projects eligible for support include the development of an energy efficiency and conservation strategy, energy efficiency audits and retrofits, transportation programs, the creation of financial incentive programs for energy efficiency improvements, the development and implementation of advanced building codes and inspections, and installation of renewable energy technologies on municipal buildings. South Jersey will begin to undertake a wide range of energy efficiency projects - from retrofitting existing municipal buildings to working with local nonprofit organizations to implement environmentally friendly energy solutions, such as installing solar energy systems and developing public outreach programs to promote energy savings.

“These federally-funded energy efficiency projects will produce real economic and environmental benefits for the people of our region.” said Congressman Andrews. Not only does this initiative cut down on our country's dependence on foreign oil, but this funding will provide the foundations to restore economic growth and curb job loss. These funds will generate an immediate demand for green jobs while providing taxpayers more cost effective and promising methods of meeting our communities' energy needs”

The residents of Camden County will see an immediate return on this investment as the energy-guzzling systems targeted as part of our ongoing County Green Initiative are replaced by energy efficient technologies,” said Camden County Freeholder Director Louis Cappelli, Jr.  “The funding will allow the replacement of outdated HVAC and lighting control systems in the County Courthouse, Administration Building, Hall of Justice and Parks Administration Buildings.  This transformation is part of the ongoing effort by Camden County to emphasize environmentally-friendly initiatives that improve cost efficiency and the quality of life for our citizens.”

As with the vast majority of Recovery funds, the EECBG program strongly emphasizes the need to generate an immediate demand for new jobs and stimulate local economies. Congressman Andrews continues to work with county and local recipients to ensure that South Jersey experiences the energy savings and economic growth intended under this program. The First Congressional District communities listed below have received their EECBG awards:

Camden County – $2,046,700
Gloucester County – $250,000
Burlington County – $200,000
Washington Township – $467,400
Pennsauken Township – $154,900
Winslow Township – $153,500

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