(NASHVILLE, TN), September 22, 2010 – Local State Senator Ken Yager today announced that Fentress will receive $57,198.29 in Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants (EECBG). The grants will enable communities to implement cost-effective strategies that reduce total energy expenses and save taxpayer money through improved energy efficiency in buildings and transportation systems.
 
“Energy efficiency is very important to helping struggling cities and counties meet their needs,” said Senator Yager. “Implementing efficiency measures will save money for taxpayers over the long run, while helping us conserve energy.”

According to the Department of Environment and Conservation, the grants fund a variety of energy efficiency and conservation programs in local communities across the state, including projects that will replace inefficient lighting in government buildings, streetlamps and traffic signals. The Department says many programs include traditional energy-efficient building retrofit measures, such as the replacement of inefficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, water heaters, windows and insulation materials with more efficient models. In addition, three grants will fund the installation of solar panels on government buildings.  They will also allow installers and retrofitters to gain valuable training and experience which will serve private sector companies as they expand their energy efficiency programs.

The state’s Energy Efficient Appliance Rebate Program (SEEARP) opened August 24. Rebates will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for qualifying Energy Star heating and cooling appliances.  Applications are available online at www.e-rebates.org/teearp or by phone at 1-877-741-4304.

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