The Maryland Energy Administration recently announced $7.5 million in awards for local governments from the Maryland Energy Infrastructure Program.
Earlier this week the Maryland Energy Administration (MEA) announced $7.5 Million in awards for local governments from the Maryland Energy Infrastructure Program (MEIP). These awards will be used to promote the development of energy infrastructure, and the conversion of existing infrastructure to options that utilize cleaner, more environmentally friendly, and less expensive energy.
According to the press release:
“MEA is proud to fund a program that will expand natural gas offerings and incentivize natural gas infrastructure throughout Maryland, especially those in underserved areas,” said Director Mary Beth Tung. “We are providing an opportunity for organizations, school institutions and communities lacking in resources to utilize a more stable energy resource that is more environmentally friendly and cost effective.”
Grants were awarded to organizations in Worcester, Somerset, Baltimore, Anne Arundel, Wicomico, Charles counties as well as Baltimore City. Collectively these investments are predicted to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 50,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year, equivalent to taking nearly 11,000 passenger cars off the road or eliminating nearly 300 rail cars of coal per year.
For many organizations, the up-front costs associated with converting energy assets to cleaner, less expensive options can be a significant hurdle, but the savings realized on commodities and maintenance provide end users with overall savings and create job growth opportunities.