Obama Administration Awards Over $18.6 Million For Oklahoma's State Energy Plan

September 16, 2009 -- Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Steven Chu has announced over $18.6 million in backing from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to support energy efficiency and renewable energy plans in Oklahoma. Under DOE's State Energy Program, Oklahoma suggested a statewide project that prioritizes energy savings, creates or retains jobs, increases the use of renewable energy, and reduces carbon pollution.

"This backing will provide an important boost for the state's economy, help to put Americans back to work, and move us toward energy independence," says Secretary Chu. "It reflects our commitment to support innovative state and local strategies to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy while insisting that taxpayer dollars be spent responsibly."

"Implementing these energy efficiency projects will provide a great benefit to Oklahoma by saving money through increased energy efficiency and will reduce our energy consumption," says Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce and Tourism Natalie Shirley. "We believe these projects will have a long-term benefit for all Oklahomans and the environment."

Oklahoma is receiving 40% of its total State Energy Plan (SEP) Recovery Act funding. The initial 10% of total backing was previously accessible to support planning activities; the remaining 50% of funds will be released once the state meets reporting, oversight, and accountability milestones required by the Recovery Act. After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, Oklahoma will gain over $23 million in additional funding, for a total of in excess of $46 million.

Oklahoma will use its Recovery Act SEP backing to advance building efficiency, renewable energy, and alternative fuel transportation plans throughout the state. These plans will encourage government, businesses, educational institutions, and residents to invest in energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies. Oklahoma will form partnerships with municipal and investor-owned utilities to implement new building efficiency programs, and conduct an advanced metering plan that will reduce energy costs for businesses and residents. These plans will reduce Oklahoma's yearly energy expenditures, create jobs, and reduce our dependence on foreign oil.

Oklahoma will provide backing to businesses, educational institutions, and nonprofit organizations for a wide range of activities including building energy efficiency, education, energy demand management, and renewable energy applications.

Oklahoma will also put SEP funds toward alternative fuel vehicle and infrastructure projects, which will save energy while improving air quality in communities. The state will invest $11 million to convert vehicles and buses to run on compressed natural gas and provide equipment for CNG refueling stations. Oklahoma will also fund 3 plans to address the need for training and outreach to develop a green jobs workforce. These plans will include public education, curriculum and certification development, and hands-on training for building efficiency and renewable energy.