THIS IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM THE OFFICE OF UNITED STATES SENATOR JAY ROCKEFELLER.

Washington, D.C. – Senators Jay Rockefeller and Robert C. Byrd, together with Congressmen Nick J. Rahall and Alan B. Mollohan, today announced that West Virginia is being awarded an initial $13.1 million through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (“Recovery Act”) – which all four voted in support of earlier this year – to improve energy efficiency for state buildings.

These funds will be used under the Department of Energy’s State Energy Program for various improvements aimed at supporting job growth and investing in clean energy and conservation – to state administrative office buildings, laboratories, schools, colleges and universities, and armories – in areas such as lighting systems, windows, HVAC systems, boilers, and control systems.

“These Recovery Act dollars are greatly needed and I am glad to see the funds released to the state,” Rockefeller said. “Investing in energy efficiency is a strong way to sustain our environment, build up our infrastructure, and create innovative jobs right here in West Virginia.”

“Making our buildings and homes more energy efficient is crucial, and I am happy to see this funding directed towards improving the energy efficiency of State buildings in West Virginia,” Byrd said.

“West Virginia plays a critical role in fulfilling America’s energy needs and we are taking a lead in our Nation's march toward energy independence,” said Rahall. “This funding invests in our local economies, helping save jobs and creating new opportunities for our citizens. At the same time, these dollars help our state adopt new, innovative energy efficient technologies that can save West Virginians money, and move our state into a new phase of leading America’s energy economy.”

“This funding is an investment that will create jobs in West Virginia today and bring energy savings throughout the state in the years to come,” said Congressman Mollohan.

The funds announced today also will go toward assisting the state in creating the Energy Efficiency for Business Revolving Loan Program to provide financial assistance to businesses to support investments in energy efficiency; and toward creating a Green Collar Jobs Training program to provide West Virginians with the education, training and skills they need for jobs in the fields of energy efficiency and renewable energy.

After demonstrating successful implementation of its plan, West Virginia is set to receive more than $16 million in additional funding.