The city plans to utilize the grant to help the cause of climate change through advertisements, promotions and development of a climate protection toolkit for use in local schools.
The Cincinnati Energy Alliance(CEA) will conduct energy audits for 20 selected nonprofit organizations and create a loan program to finance the organizations’ energy efficiency improvements. CEA’s energy audits are expected to lead to about $470,000 in investments in energy efficiency measures, saving 1 million kilowatts of electricity and 25,000 therms of gas.
Cincinnati will contribute $250,000 in matching funds and has committed to sharing lessons with other communities.
The Climate Showcase Communities Grant Program is administered by EPA’s State and Local Climate and Energy Program that provides technical assistance, tools and guidance to help state, local and tribal governments implement policies and programs to mitigate climate change.
Mark Mallory, mayor of Cincinnati, said: ”This is a tremendous achievement for our city. Our Green Cincinnati Action Plan is a collaboration among dedicated citizens, community organizations and businesses in our region. Our partners all realize that making Cincinnati a ‘Green City’ is essential to making Cincinnati a successful city in the future.”
Cheryl Newton, regional air division director of EPA, said: ”The Green Cincinnati Plan is an innovative strategy to reduce greenhouse gases and cut energy bills for families and businesses. Taking action on climate change is one of EPA’s top priorities. EPA is pleased to support the city’s efforts to fight climate change.”
