Clean energy grant lacks funding

A new grant program that would fight rising energy costs and fund local energy efficiency and clean energy projects has come to a halt.

Despite alarming and ongoing increases in energy prices, Rep. Heather Wilson and others in Congress have delayed funding for the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant program (EECBG).

The EECBG is a practical plan that would direct $10 billion over five years to states, counties and cities in the form of block grants. It would provide funding for New Mexico’s largest ten cities and ten counties to reduce fossil fuel emissions, reduce energy use and improve energy efficiency in the transportation and building sectors. The grant would provide over $13 million to Albuquerque and would offer opportunities for tribes and small municipalities to apply for funding as well.

Efficiency and conservation measures are the least costly ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, slash energy use, and save money on utility bills. Environment New Mexico is calling on New Mexico’s delegation to fully support funding that would help New Mexico’s cities and counties fight rising energy prices while supporting energy efficiency and clean energy projects.