Federal Green Backs to Help Local Cities Go Green

Updated 4:30 PM PST, Tue, Oct 27, 2009

Print Email Share TWITTER FACEBOOK

Getty Images/National Geographic Creative

Glendale, Burbank and Anaheim were all awarded millions of dollars in economic-stimulus funds today by the U.S. Department of Energy as part of a nationwide effort to upgrade the nation's power grids, federal and local officials announced today.

Glendale and Burbank were each awarded $20 million in "smart grid" grants, while Anaheim received $5.9 million.

"Our future is much brighter with the advancement of green technology," said Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Pasadena, who pushed for the Glendale and Burbank funding. "Innovative energy-efficient solutions will help grow our economy and make our nation energy independent. Southern California is leading the way with initiatives like the smart grids in Burbank and Glendale."

The funding was part of a $3.4 billion package of economic stimulus grants announced today by President Barack Obama through the U.S. Department of Energy.

The grants, which are intended to spur the modernization of the nation's power grid, went to 100 private companies, utilities, manufacturers and cities around the country.

Glendale plans to use the funding to help install 84,000 "smart meters" that provide two-way communications between customers and Glendale Water & Power, and give customers real-time usage data to help them conserve energy and water.

Burbank plans to use its funds to install 51,000 "smart meters" and create an overall energy-demand management system.

"The entire electrical network in the country is being modernized," said Burbank Mayor Gary Bric. "Soon, we'll be able to take full advantage of all types of renewable energy like wind and solar. This will also be a major step in addressing greenhouse gases and climate change."

Anaheim plans to use its funding to upgrade its "smart grid" network, install 35,000 residential meters, along with security and data systems that will reduce peak load and line losses.