ANNAPOLIS, MD (August 27, 2010) – Governor Martin O’Malley issued this statement today following the announcement by United States Secretary of Energy Chu that two local weatherization agencies in Western Maryland would be receiving over $2.5 million in additional federal funding to assist low-income households with projects designed to reduce their energy bills.
“I want to congratulate the Garrett County Community Action Committee, based in Oakland, on its award of over $1 million to install wind, solar or geothermal renewable energy systems for low income residents. Congratulations are also in order for Washington County-based C&O Conservation, Inc., located in Williamsport, for its award of $1.5 million to replace improperly sized HVAC equipment, thereby saving energy and extending equipment life. Both of these agencies work through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, weatherizing homes for low-income residents in order to save energy and reduce energy bills.
“Since the receipt of federal Recovery Act funds, these two agencies, along with agencies throughout Maryland, have stepped up their production rates and are currently weatherizing more than 350 homes per month. Through June 2010, 1,586 homes in Maryland had been weatherized using federal Recovery Act funding. These grants mark an exciting opportunity to allow low-income residents to enjoy the benefits of alternative energy sources and lower utility bills. These investments in energy efficiency also result in jobs for carpenters, electricians and others who perform the weatherization.”
