The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for the Local Government Greenhouse Gas Pilot Grant Program to help local governments play a role in combating climate change.

The deadline for applications is August 29. $300,000 is available to promote greenhouse gas emission reductions, conserve energy and lower operating expenses. The funds were included in the state budget on the initiative of Rep. Greg Vitali (D-Delaware).

“Reducing the impacts of climate change is important to the vibrancy of our communities because the foundations of our regional economies—buildings, infrastructure, transportation and land use policies—and the sustainability of local industries are all dependent on a stable climate,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty. “These grants will help local governments take the first steps toward finding opportunities to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

"I have been advocating for climate change both at the state and local level for many years," Rep. Vitali said. "In the absence of federal action, and the absence of significant action at the state level, a local response to climate change is essential.

"Pennsylvania alone is responsible for about 1 percent of the world's greenhouse gas production, so our local governments have an important role to play in the response to climate change, and the state has a responsibility to take the lead in helping to fund that response."

As an example, Rep. Vitali said Haverford Township, Delaware County, recently presented its first gas emissions inventory report detailing the 2005 energy use and greenhouse gas emissions in the township and in community operations. The report represents the completion of the first step in the township's plan to address climate change, with future initiatives planned.

Under the Program, municipalities or regional partnerships can apply for grants to hire technical service providers who can help establish greenhouse gas emissions inventories and then develop plans to reduce emissions.

A greenhouse gas inventory totals emission levels from direct and indirect activities, while an action, or mitigation, plan offers specific recommendations on how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Recommendations can be tailored to the specific needs of a municipality. If implemented, the recommendations are to help a municipality improve its energy efficiency and reduce energy costs, which will yield additional long-term savings. Local governments are not required to implement the measures identified through the grant program.

Individual municipalities can qualify for up to $20,000. A regional application, with multiple municipalities, can request greater amounts, but not more than $20,000 per participating municipality.

Applications will be judged based on the following criteria: energy use and efficiency, use of renewable energy, commitment to greenhouse gas reduction, efficient land-use planning and management, financial and in-kind contributions, contractor experience and qualifications, contractor resources and location

Grant funding will be awarded on an upfront basis. Applicants are encouraged, but not required, to provide either a financial match or in-kind contributions.

DEP said more information and an application will be posted on the DEP Grants webpage.

Links: PEC, Nature Conservancy Call for Passage of State Energy, Climate Change Bills

House Passes PA Climate Change Action Plan Bill

Senate Passes Climate Change Action Plan Legislation

PA Environmental Council Unveils Stakeholder-Driven Climate Change Roadmap

5/23/2008