News Release

First half of $71 million Louisiana Department of Natural Resources energy stimulus plan approved for funding

The U.S. Department of Energy announced today Louisiana’s Department of Natural Resources has been approved for a total of $35.5 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.

Today’s allocation brings the funding to 50% of the total allocation for Louisiana’s State Energy Program (SEP).

The remaining $35 million will be available once Louisiana’s program meets reporting, oversight and accountability requirements set by the federal Recovery Act.

“The state of Louisiana has an opportunity to invest more in energy efficiency programs that can help homeowners, businesses and state and local government to save on energy costs for years to come,” said state Department of Natural Resources Secretary Scott Angelle.

The ARRA appropriated $3.1 billion to state energy programs nationally to help states create green jobs, as well as adopt energy efficiency technologies. The Louisiana SEP includes an estimated annual energy savings of 2,121,937 mbtu, that will result in emissions reductions of 355,270 tons of CO2, among other benefits.

Angelle said the department’s plan has several components, including rebates for the use of energy efficient products and for the continuation of Governor Bobby Jindal’s Executive Order to retrofit state buildings for energy savings.

DNR Deputy Secretary Lori LeBlanc said the plan was developed in consultation with many stakeholders statewide, and in accordance with U.S. Department of Energy requirements.

“With this plan, we have tried to offer a diverse portfolio of energy programs that will maximize the energy efficiency and renewable energy benefits to all Louisiana citizens,” she said.

The five programs in the Louisiana SEP plan administered under DNR’s Energy Office are:

▪ “Lead by Example” Energy Efficiency Program for State Buildings
▪ Residential/Commercial Energy Efficiency Program
▪ Development of Energy Star Appliance Rebate Program
▪ Transportation Lighting Efficiency and Alternative Fuels Program
▪ Renewable Energy Development Grant Program
▪ Education, Training, and Outreach Program

DNR will be finalizing implementation of these programs in the next few months, and will make announcements as the programs come on line and are available for participation.

To learn more about the programs and opportunities to participate, go to www.dnr.louisiana.gov