The U.S. Department of Energy has begun announcing grant awards to the Energy Programs of many of the states, including several in the Heartland.  These State Programs outlined a plan of action to maximize energy savings, create or retain jobs in the energy producing industry, increase the use of renewable energy, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in their respective state.

Currently, 40% of the states’ allocated funds will be distributed and the remainder after their plans have been put into action.  Missouri is eligible for a total of $57 million, Illinois for $101 million, Iowa for $40 million, Arkansas for $40 million, Kentucky for $52 million, and Kansas for $30 million.  These funds represent a portion of the $3.1 billion allocated to the Dept. of Energy in the Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Act.