“Pennsylvania is making critical investments to encourage more businesses to conserve energy, while developing and using more alternative and renewable sources,” Gov. Rendell said. “The commonwealth is investing half a million dollars in these assorted energy conservation projects because these businesses are investing in their own futures, and because these projects will benefit Pennsylvanians in the long run.

 

“By using less energy, they will save nearly $465,000 after just one year, which will allow them to further invest in their own operations and create a competitive advantage in the marketplace. At the same time, they will reduce Pennsylvania’s energy demand, help stimulate the economy and improve the environment.”

 

The 53 small businesses that are receiving grants currently have energy consumption costs of more than $1 million annually. In the first year alone these businesses will save a projected total of $464,689—a savings of approximately 46 percent. All of the grant recipients will track their energy consumption and provide reports to the Department of Environmental Protection that measure their energy savings once the planned energy efficiency upgrades have been made.

 

A list of grants awarded is available online.