Feds fund more state energy programs

WASHINGTON, June 25 (UPI) -- U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu says his department will fund more than $154 million in state energy projects.

Chu said the money, provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, will support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in California, Missouri, New Hampshire and North Carolina. The projects prioritize energy savings, create or retain jobs, increase the use of renewable energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"This funding will provide an important boost for state economies, help to put Americans back to work and move us toward energy independence," Chu said. "It reflects our commitment to support innovative state and local strategies to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy while insisting that taxpayer dollars be spent responsibly."

The Recovery Act appropriated $3.1 billion to State Energy Programs to help achieve national energy independence goals and promote local economic recovery, officials said. States use the grants to create green jobs, address state energy priorities, and adopt emerging renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies.

California received $90.4 million, while Missouri received $22.9 million, New Hampshire $10.3 million and North Carolina $30.4 million.