The Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission (CSPDC) was awarded $403,150 to fund the Shenandoah Valley Regional Energy Efficiency Strategy. Twenty localities in the region will benefit from the project. The project is being funded with economic stimulus monies through the Virginia Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program administered by the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy. The project was among the 26 finalists chosen from a pool of 148 proposals submitted statewide.
     The grant will be used to help local governments reduce energy use and save on energy costs. The first step is to conduct energy audits of public buildings and other facilities in the region. The energy audits will help identify and prioritize energy saving improvements such as upgraded lighting and mechanical systems, temperature controls, weatherization, water efficiency measures, and renewable energy sources. The project also includes an educational outreach program on energy efficiency and conservation.