# What This Bill Does

This bill revives and expands a federal grant program that helps communities save energy and reduce their utility costs. The Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program originally started in 2007 but had its funding expire, so this bill brings it back to life with fresh money and broader goals.

The program gives grants directly to cities, counties, and states so they can fund local energy-saving projects. Communities can use the money to upgrade buildings to be more energy-efficient, install solar panels, improve heating and cooling systems, or build infrastructure for alternative fuels like electric vehicle charging stations. The bill also adds a new focus on "alternative fuels" and distributed energy systems, meaning it now encourages communities to diversify their energy sources beyond traditional electricity and natural gas.

Here's the money part: the bill authorizes $3.5 billion per year for five years (2022 through 2026) to fund these grants. That's a significant investment that could help thousands of communities across the country tackle energy efficiency. The bill limits administrative overhead to just 1 percent, meaning at least 99 percent of the money goes directly to actual projects. For everyday people, this means potential opportunities for lower energy bills if your community applies for grants to upgrade local buildings, plus job creation in construction and energy sectors as these projects get built.

The bill essentially gives communities the tools and funding to make practical improvements that reduce energy waste, lower costs for residents and businesses, and create local jobs—all while helping the country move toward cleaner energy sources.

To amend the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to reauthorize the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program, and for other purposes.

Rep. Stanton, Greg [D-AZ-9]

 <p>This bill reauthorizes through FY2026 and revises the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program. Under the program, the Department of Energy provides grants to local governments, states, and Indian tribes for energy efficiency and conservation projects and programs. This bill expands the allowable uses of grant funds to include the deployment of energy distribution technologies that significantly expand access to alternative fuels.</p>