Released on June 25, 2009

The state of Missouri has received $22.9 million to increase its energy efficiency, and it will focus a portion of the funds on its five most energy-intensive manufacturing categories, one of which is metalcasting.

According to a press release issued by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), four states have been given a total of $154 million in Recovery Act funding to support energy efficiency and renewable energy products. The other states receiving the funding are California, New Hampshire and North Carolina.

Under the DOE State Energy Program, each state proposed statewide plans that prioritize energy savings, create or retain jobs, increase the use of renewable energy or reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Missouri’s plan was the only one of the four to specifically name the metalcasting industry.

“This funding will provide an important boost for state economies, help to put Americans back to work and move us toward energy independence,” said DOE Secretary Steven Chu. “It reflects our commitment to support innovative state and local strategies to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy while insisting that taxpayer dollars be spent responsibly.”

Missouri’s plan also includes a variety of home efficiency programs, building energy codes, and education and training initiatives. The funding will go toward encouraging Missourians to reduce their energy consumption by increasing the energy efficiency of their homes, agricultural operations, transportation, schools and local governments, in addition to manufacturing facilities.

The metalcasting industry, as well as the aluminum, chemicals, food products and forest products sectors, will be examined to determine specific, targeted activities to increase energy efficiency. The statewide program may include energy audits, rebates and low-interest loans, workshops and development of a web-based audit tool.

If it demonstrates successful implementation of its plan, Missouri will receive more than $28.6 million in additional funding, for a total of more than $57 million.