$144 Million smart grid funding announced

In Washington, DC at GridWeek 2009 Conference, Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced more than $144 million in funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the electric power sector, including $44 million in awards to state public utility commissions and $100 million in available funding for smart grid workforce training programs. In his address, Secretary Chu detailed his vision for implementing the smart grid and modernizing America’s electrical system. He sees a stronger, smarter, more efficient electricity infrastructure that will encourage growth in renewable energy sources, empower consumers to reduce their energy use, and lay the foundation for sustained, long-term economic expansion.