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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 13, 2009
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Orie Says DEP Looking for Public Comment on Green Energy Works! Program

HARRISBURG – The Department of Environmental Protection is asking for public comments on guidelines for a new grant offering under the new PA Green Energy Works! Program, according to Senator Jane Orie (R-Allegheny).  The program is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and is aimed at reducing energy costs for consumers, businesses and local governments.

"DEP is seeking input and feedback from the public, businesses and local governments to determine if this program meets the needs of consumers while ensuring that the federal Recovery Act money is being used effectively," said Orie.  "The funding provided by this program will boost economic recovery throughout the commonwealth by creating new jobs and opportunities."

Pennsylvania is receiving $99.6 million, which will be invested through the PA Green Energy Works! and other energy grant programs.

Pennsylvania will provide grants to businesses, non-profit corporations, colleges or universities, municipal or county governments, and economic development organizations for shovel-ready wind, solar, biogas and combined heat and power projects. The projects are expected to spur economic development by encouraging private investment, creating green jobs and building energy projects that will provide significant amounts of energy for decades to come.

Draft guidelines for the program are available for public review and comment at www.recovery.pa.gov  under the heading, "Where is your money going?" and then by clicking on "Energy Independence."

Comments will be accepted until Aug. 24, and should be sent to epapagreenenergy@state.pa.us or to DEP's Office of Energy and Technology Development, P.O. Box 2063, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8772.

Following the review of public comments and recommendations, the department anticipates accepting applications for the new program beginning in early September.

To learn more about how the federal economic Recovery Act will benefit communities across Pennsylvania, visit www.recovery.pa.gov.

CONTACT:

Mike Sarfert
(717) 787-6538