McIlhinney Urges Businesses, Consumers to Apply for Clean Energy Funding

HARRISBURG – Sen. Chuck McIlhinney (R-Bucks) is urging consumers and businesses to apply for three state grant programs aimed at improving energy efficiency and promoting the use of alternative fuels.

Applications are available now for the Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant (AFIG) Program, the Energy Harvest Program and the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority. All three programs are administered by the state Department of Environmental Protection.

"With energy costs continuing to rise, utilizing clean and renewable energy has never been more important," McIlhinney said. "These programs give consumers and businesses a more affordable way to utilize new technologies to cut energy use and costs."

The AFIG program provides funding to cover the cost of purchasing or retrofitting vehicles that use alternative fuel sources, such as biodiesel or E-85 ethanol, or hybrid vehicles. Grant funding is also available to install fueling equipment and to cover the added cost to purchase alternative fuels.

The Energy Harvest Program funds the deployment of advanced alternative energy technologies, such as hydrogen and fuel cell technology. Eligible uses also include biomass energy projects, waste coal reclamation for energy and clean distributed generation projects.

The Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority offers grants for businesses interested in locating or expanding alternative energy manufacturing or production operations in the state.

Businesses and consumers can get more information on the programs at www.depweb.state.pa.us or by calling (717)705-5400. Applications for all three programs must be postmarked or received by June 20.

Contact:

Heather Cevasco
(717)787-7305