LANSING – State Representative Terry Brown (D-Pigeon) today encouraged local nonprofit and public organizations to apply for Michigan energy efficiency grants through the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC).
"With energy needs increasing, it is more important than ever to tap into Michigan's renewable energy potential," Brown said. "It is vital that our community continue to take advantage of opportunities to create jobs and grow our renewable energy industry. The Thumb is already well known for its wind energy potential, and by applying for grants like these we will remain at the front of the pack as the renewable energy industry grows."
The MPSC announced Tuesday that up to $8.5 million in Michigan energy efficiency grants are now available. The MPSC will consider proposals from nonprofit and public organizations willing to design ways to install and operate small scale, on-site energy systems using renewable energy resources and energy efficiency upgrades at multiple Michigan local government facilities.
The deadline for proposals is noon on April 30. Groups interested in submitting a proposal can visit the MPSC's Web site at michigan.gov/mpsc.
"We've already had several great projects at our schools showing our students first-hand the potential of renewable resources," Brown said. "As we've already seen in our community, alternative energy is a growing industry with the potential to create jobs. Applying for funds will help ensure our area residents have the resources needed to pursue those opportunities."