Reducing the consumption of power by using more efficient energy technology has become one of the most effective tools in the fight to cut carbon emissions. The federal government is investing heavily in this technology by offering grants to communities for a variety of projects.

In February 2024, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced a new round of awards through its Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) program. The program will distribute $17.28 million for a number of projects hosted by governments and communities across the country for technologies that cross the spectrum of energy use and consumption. The money will go to four states, 23 local governments, two Native American tribes and Guam.

The program funding is highly flexible, with over 14 categories of eligible use. As a result, awardees include a diversity of projects.

For example, Guam was awarded $1.5 million to install solar panels, battery storage and 540 solar LED lights to eleven government buildings.

North Carolina was awarded nearly $3 million to establish a competitive grant program for local governments for energy efficiency retrofits and renewable energy installations in municipal facilities.

Las Vegas was awarded $500,000 to install solar systems at city facilities, including fire stations, the municipal court and a civic plaza.

The Cachil DeHe Band of Wintun Indians in California was awarded $10,000 to purchase and install a DC fast-charging station for electric vehicles, which will be available for public use on Tribal Trust Land.

The EECBG Program is administered by the DOE Office of State and Community Energy Programs and is funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was passed in 2021. This announcement is the fourth such award since the EECBG Program was launched in October 2023.