Four Townships Share Grant for Energy Upgrade

HARRISBURG – State Rep. Camille “Bud” George, D-74 of Houtzdale, said that Decatur, Lawrence, Bradford and Woodward townships will share a $390,202 grant to implement energy conservation measures.

“The PA Conservation Works! grant is funded by the federal economic stimulus initiative and administered through the state Department of Environmental Protection,” George said. “The combined projects are expected to save more than $17,000 annually in energy costs and protect 24 full-time jobs.”

George said that he was informed that the townships’ energy savings will save “well in excess” of the minimum 25 percent reduction required by the grant program.

According to the DEP, the four-township project will employ solar energy, insulation and window upgrades, and the installation of two geothermal heat pump systems. The grant also will enable Bradford, Decatur, and Woodward townships to complete energy audits, which will pave the way for future energy upgrades.

George said the DEP also notified him that the Clearfield County Sewage Committee is approved for an $8,728 Sewage Facilities Planning Grant. The grant reimburses the committee for 42.5 percent of eligible sewage-enforcement costs.