Energy efficiency in stimulus bill

The New York Times recently reported about the flood of energy efficiency money included in the stimulus bill passed by Congress in February.
According to the article, over $20 billion is included in the bill, including spending to improve energy efficiency in government buildings, in the homes of the poor, and to fund energy efficiency research. Advocates have said that there is more money set aside in this bill than in any other in history. The largest chunk of money is set aside for grants to state and local governments to improve their buildings and facilities.

This bill provides an opportunity to make lasting changes to government buildings, including weatherizing windows and entrances, modernizing wiring and researching long-term solutions to energy drains, such as too-large skylight in a Knoxville, TN office.

It is crucial to find a balance between near-term spending and long-term impact. State and local governments will be encouraged to file for and spend grants quickly, but many cities and states have not prepared with appropriate building and energy audits. To solve this problem, the grant opportunities should provide time and funding for the governments to complete audits. This will ensure the maximum potential is gained through the stimulus money.