Pa. governor funds alternative fuels

HARRISBURG, Pa., April 11 (UPI) -- Pennsylvania Gov. Edward Rendell announced the availability of $31.4 million in grants for clean-energy and alternative-fuel projects.

The three programs issuing the grants are the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants program, the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority and Energy Harvest, the administration announced Tuesday.

"Over the past four years, Pennsylvania has become a world leader in development of new, clean sources of energy and fuels through strategic investments and policies that foster innovation and attract substantial international investment," Rendell said.

For financing clean-burning fuels like ethanol and biofuels, $16.4 million is available in grant money. PEDA is seeking applicants for a variety of clean-energy projects including solar, wind and integrated gasification combined cycle. A total of $10 million is available for PEDA projects.

Energy Harvest was created in 2003 and is being reinstated by Rendell with $5 million in grants. The project aims to promote awareness and market growth for renewable energy technologies and clean fuel alternatives.

The grant money and programs are part of Rendell's Energy Independence Strategy to reduce Pennsylvania's reliance on imports and fossil fuels.