The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded the Louisville-Jefferson County Metro Government $7 million in federal stimulus dollars for energy improvement projects.
The city’s plan for the grant money includes:
• $1.5 million to install energy-efficient lights around the downtown arena project and in suburban areas where no electrical infrastructure exists;
• $1.5 million to add green roofs, solar panels and efficient lighting to city buildings;
• $1.4 million to create a revolving loan fund to help businesses improve energy efficiency. Companies and small businesses may apply through the city’s Economic Development Department;
• $1.4 million to create a loan program at the Louisville Community Development Bank so that non-profits may make energy-efficient improvements to their buildings. An additional $200,000 will set up a fund for non-profits to do energy audits; and
• $1 million to synchronize traffic lights on major suburban corridors, including Dixie Highway and Shelbyville Road.
