STORRS, CT – Secretary of Energy Samuel W. Bodman today announced that the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) will award a total of $34.6 million to states, five territories and the District of Columbia to improve energy efficiency throughout the nation.  The funding, from DOE’s State Energy Program (SEP), can provide significant savings for consumers, businesses and states to increase energy efficiency of homes and buildings. 

“One of the biggest sources of energy we have in this country is the energy that we currently waste.  By investing in energy efficient technologies government, businesses, and homeowners can conserve energy and save money,” Secretary Bodman said.  

Secretary Bodman made the announcement after touring the University of Connecticut’s Global Fuel Cell Center to highlight hydrogen as a fuel source for the future with Rep. Rob Simmons (CT-2nd).  As part his Advanced Energy Initiative (AEI), President Bush requested $289 million, in FY 2007, for the Hydrogen Fuel Initiative – a $1.2 billion effort to accelerate the development of hydrogen fuel cells and affordable hydrogen-powered cars. 

Later today, Secretary Bodman will tour DOE’s Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, New York, to discuss the American Competitiveness Initiative (ACI) and the importance of the role of science and education.  Brookhaven is one of ten DOE Office of Science laboratories.  As part of the American Competitiveness Initiative, President Bush has set a course for doubling the government funding in the physical sciences to ensure that America will lead the world in opportunity and innovation for decades to come.

After touring the laboratory, Secretary Bodman will meet with students from John F. Kennedy and Bellport Middle Schools, competitors in DOE’s National Science Bowl®, as well as with local students who participate in Brookhaven’s Office of Educational Programs (OEP).  OEP is designed to engage students in educational events and research opportunities with the Brookhaven Laboratory, a program also supported by the American Competitiveness Initiative.

Secretary Bodman also touted the 75,000 jobs created nationwide last month and the positive impacts research and development of new technologies will have on strengthening America’s energy and economic security.  The unemployment rate of 4.6 percent is the lowest since July 2001.  Secretary Bodman discussed positive impacts research and development of new technologies will have on strengthening America’s energy and economic security.  The economy has created 5.3 million jobs since August 2003, and about 2 million of those were created over the past 12 months.  America has experienced five straight years of growth in productivity, and per capita personal income continues to rise.  These figures indicate that the American economy is strong by almost any measure. 

“We have the strongest economy on earth and the energy sector provides the fuel for it to expand,” Secretary Bodman said.  “Under the President’s leadership we are working to strengthen our energy mix and expand our scientific might to remain the world’s economic leader.”

Secretary Bodman highlighted ways industry, government and educational institutions can contribute to the success of the Advanced Energy Initiative and the American Competitiveness Initiative through continued emphasis on research and development of new technologies.  Together, these initiatives will continue to increase America’s economic vitality through the development of alternative energy sources and will provide our next generation of scientists and researchers with the educational foundation necessary to compete in the 21st century.

As part of a broader effort to highlight the Bush Administration’s economic and energy initiatives a number of DOE principals participated in events around the country.  DOE Under Secretary David Garman toured and offered remarks at the General Motors Advanced Technologies Facilities in Honeoye Falls, New York, with Rep. Randy Kuhl (NY-29th).  DOE Assistant Secretary for Policy and International Affairs Karen Harbert toured and highlighted the opening of PNM’s Solar Generating Station – a new solar photovoltaic plant - outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico.  And Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Andy Karsner kicked off the Energy Efficient Car Showcase with Rep. Roscoe Bartlett (MD-6th) in Frederick, Maryland, to promote President Bush’s AEI.

Please find below the SEP grant awards to states, territories, and the District of Columbia:

State & FY 2006 Distribution

Media contact(s):
Craig Stevens, (202) 586-4940