The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced that six community agencies in Maine will receive $7 million in additional funding for weatherization projects. Aroostook County Action Program in Presque Isle, Community Concepts Inc. in South Paris, Kennebec Valley Community Action Program based in Waterville, Penquis Community Action Program located in Bangor, Waldo Community Action Partners based in Belfast and Western Maine Community Action located in East Wilton will all be receiving additional funding. The six local weatherization agencies will use the new funding to install solar hot water systems, hot water heat pumps, replace inefficient washers with ENERGY STAR-qualified models, and perform select heating system upgrades.
According to DOE, nationwide, nearly $90 million in Recovery Act funds will be awarded to more than 100 high-performing local weatherization providers in 27 states to complement and expand their existing weatherization programs. Each of the selected organizations has already met their milestone of weatherizing 30 percent of their total production goal. These awards will allow these successful grantees for the first time to install renewable energy systems and cutting-edge energy efficiency technologies in homes to help families save even more on their energy bills.
The USDA Rural Development has announced that it has approved a $278,000 loan and $215,000 grant for the Bethel Water District. These funds will be used to provide additional facilities to increase the supply of water as well as ensure improved quality for the residents of Bethel. The installation of large diameter mains and a river crossing will help alleviate low pressure problems. This project will also provide interconnection and consolidation of the Bethel Water District's new supply with the West Bethel satellite system.
"The USDA has consistently provided rural Maine communities with the resources they need to replace or upgrade our aging water infrastructure," said Michaud. "This investment will make significant water system improvements possible in Bethel, which will not only provide environmental and economic benefits to area businesses and residents, but also create jobs in the community."
The funding is being administered by USDA Rural Development's Water and Environmental Program, which provides loans and grants to ensure that the necessary investments are made in water and wastewater infrastructure to deliver safe drinking water and protect the environment in rural areas. Funding of individual recipients is contingent upon their meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.
The Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC) that it has successfully generated grid-compatible power from tidal currents at its Cobscook Bay site in Eastport, Maine.
Rep. Michaud also announced that he has secured $700,000 in the FY 2011 House energy and water appropriations bill for further research and development of tidal energy in Maine. This funding follows a $1 million FY 2010 investment that Michaud secured last year for tidal energy research and development conducted by the University of Maine and its partners, including ORPC.
Staff of Rep. Michaud
