Small Businesses Receive Grants For Sustainable Energy Projects

The Sustainable Energy Fund selected seven Pennsylvania businesses for awards in support of sustainable energy projects.

Through the Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program, the Sustainable Energy Fund awarded up to $20,000 to each recipient for expenses associated with the installation of sustainable energy projects including energy efficiency improvements or generation of electricity from renewable resources.

Partial funding for the grant program was obtained from PPL Electric Utilities as the result of the default service settlement. Award recipients were chosen through a competitive evaluation process. Each project to receive funding will achieve a minimum 15 percent increase in energy efficiency.

“These awards demonstrate SEF’s commitment to a sustainable energy future as they balance the need for affordable, reliable energy without negatively impacting the environment,” SEF President Jennifer Hopkins said. “These companies were ready to begin their projects, and over half of the projects include capturing free energy from the sun! I can think of no better way to beat rapidly escalating utility costs than to harness free energy already falling on your business.”

Grants will be awarded to the following businesses:

-- The Allentown Brew Works will implement a large LED lighting project;

-- The Sunshine Road Partnership, also in Allentown, will receive a grant for a complete energy upgrade, including building envelope work, lighting and a solar photovoltaic system;

-- The Swim-In Zone of Center Valley, is receiving a grant for a power management system which includes monitoring of electricity flow and lighting controls;

-- Phoenix Forging in Catasauqua, will upgrade its plant by installing energy efficient T-5 lighting;

-- Companion Animal Hospital of Selinsgrove, will heat hot water for its facility;

-- Sir D’s Catering in Harrisburg, will install a solar thermal system for its commercial kitchen; and

-- Maude Alley, an historic property in Honesdale, will utilize solar photovoltaic technology and implement an efficiency upgrade.

“We applaud these companies for taking steps that will not only help them control their energy costs, but also help to protect the environment,” said Tom Stathos, director of Customer Programs for PPL Electric Utilities. “We want customers to use energy wisely, and we’re pleased to offer options that can help.”