New Program to Support Energy Efficiency in Ohio Communities

COLUMBUS, Ohio – A new grant program is designed to improve energy efficiency and save money in some of Ohio’s most vulnerable communities.

A total of $3.1 million in grant funding is available as part of the new Brightening Ohio Communities Grant Program. Administered by the Ohio Department of Development, the program will help lower-income communities pay for energy-efficient streetlights, perimeter lighting and lighting in municipal-owned parking lots.

“This program is not just about new streetlights – it’s about creating a brighter and safer future for all Ohioans,” Gov. Mike DeWine said. “Every watt saved translates to real money that our local leaders can use to reinvest in other essential services for our communities. By improving energy efficiency at the street level, we’re making a long-term, sustainable contribution to neighborhoods.”

Of the total funding available, approximately $130,000 will be used to provide local governments with technical assistance on the grant application process. The remaining $3 million in funding will be used for replacing current lighting with energy-efficient technologies such as LEDs, solar and motion-sensor lighting.  

“This is community-driven problem-solving at its finest,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. “We listened to the needs and priorities of our local partners, and we’ve responded with a program that will reduce energy costs and contribute to safer streets across Ohio.”

Each county in the state is eligible to receive up to $500,000. Any local unit of government in the state is eligible to apply for funding, with priority given to projects located within Ohio’s Disadvantaged Communities. 

For more information and to apply, click HERE. The deadline to apply is Dec. 15.

Published by The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.