To help small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs), the US Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a $14.8 million fund. The funds are part of the Industrial Training and Assessment Centres (ITAC) implementation grants program.
The funds will enable 57 manufacturers implement energy saving initiatives nationwide. The implementation includes installing solar panels, heat pumps, and upgrading lighting and heating systems.
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Goals of the ITAC Program
The ITAC program is designed to help SMMs lower energy costs and emissions. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law also backs the program. The grants which are part of the program are intended to fund energy assessments and improvements. These improvements might boost busineses to become more energy efficient and competitive while reducing their carbon footprint.
US Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm said, “From investments in onsite solar, to heat pumps, to lighting and ventilation improvements, the ITAC program has been instrumental in setting up manufacturers for success.” She highlighted that these energy-saving improvements will not only reduce costs but also strengthen the manufacturing sector across the US.
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Environmental Impact and Workforce
The funds will allow for the reduction of CO2 emissions by nearly 33,000 tons annually. This amount is equivalent to the emissions of around 11 small enterprises each year.
The investment also aligns with the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 Initiative. The initiative ensures that 40% of the benefits of federal investments flow to disadvantaged communities.
Additionally, 18 of the selected projects are located in these underinvested communities, helping to boost economic development in these areas. The DOE’s ITAC program has already helped over 219 businesses across 38 states, providing more than $40 million in grants. These businesses have implemented energy-saving projects that are expected to save $21.2 million annually.
Expanding Access to Energy Efficiency
The DOE has also opened up the ITAC program for additional applications. Four more entities will now provide energy assessments, including one with expertise in cybersecurity. This expansion aims to increase access to energy-saving opportunities for more manufacturers.
The DOE is working with ENERGYWERX, a partner intermediary, to further its mission of developing clean energy solutions. ENERGYWERX helps broaden the DOE’s engagement with innovative organizations to speed up the adoption of clean energy technologies.
