FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 30, 2003
CONTACT: Linda Long, DEP,
(850) 245-2112
Ann Rowe, DCA, (850) 922-1600
Florida Energy Office Announces Energy
Grants
--Funding increases energy awareness,
environmental protection and efficiency -
TALLAHASSEE- The Florida Energy Office today
congratulated state universities and organizations for winning
awards of over $322,000. Florida State University, the
University of Central Florida, University of Florida, the South
Florida Regional Planning Council and National Energy Foundation
each partnered with the Energy Office to obtain grants to
promote energy conservation and efficiency.
“We are making a strong commitment to Florida’s economy
and environment by developing alternative energy sources,”
said Department of Environmental Protection Deputy Secretary for
Regulatory Programs and Energy Allan Bedwell. “Together with
the State’s efforts, this funding will encourage energy
efficiency and bring new business opportunities into our
communities.”
Florida received five grants from the U. S. Department of
Energy, which awarded 187 grants nationally totaling over $17
million. The Florida Energy Office will partner with each
organization and oversee the projects.
“Florida is putting grant dollars to work and supporting
innovative, real world technology,” said Department of
Community Affairs Secretary Colleen Castille. “Energy
efficiency and awareness will help reduce energy consumption,
save Floridians money and protect our environment.”
Recipients include:
- Florida State University Center for Applied Power
Systems: In partnership with the U.S. Department of
Energy High Temperature Superconductivity Program, the
Center for Applied Power Systems will share the benefits and
effectiveness of High Temperature Superconductivity
technologies with industry, government and the public.
Superconductivity improves electricity conductance during
transfer to increase efficiency.
- South Florida Regional Planning Council: Funding
will support the efforts of the Florida Gold Coast Clean
Cities Coalition to establish an alternative fuel
infrastructure and expand the use of alternative fuel
transportation.
- University of Central Florida/Florida Solar Energy
Center: The partnership will upgrade a compressed
natural gas station to a 24 hour a day operation with
automated payment options. The station, located in
Titusville, is the first in a series of fueling stations
promoted by the Space Coast Clean Cities Coalition.
- Florida Energy Extension Service/University of Florida:
Funding will be used to create a continuing educational
program for licensed Florida building professionals. The
program emphasizes cost-effective approaches for improved
energy efficiency in newly constructed homes. Manufacturers
of heating and air systems are donating products to the
program and providing technical support.
- National Energy Foundation/Brevard County
Schools/Marion County Schools: As part of Rebuild
America-Energy Smart Schools, this program targets energy
education and building modifications to reduce energy
consumption. Participating schools will be retrofitted with
energy efficient technologies and students will learn about
using energy wisely through a variety of lessons.
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Press Office
