Federal Stimulus Grant Improves Schools' Energy Efficiency with Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems; Creates 145 Jobs
RANTOUL - August 27, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today announced the completion of new geothermal heating and cooling systems at four Rantoul schools. The project, funded in part through a $480,000 federal stimulus grant, will significantly reduce the district's energy usage and resulted in the hiring of approximately 145 local workers.
"Through the State's Energy Plan, we are investing in projects that will support Illinois' green industry and further our long-term energy goals," said Governor Quinn. "I commend Rantoul City Schools for recognizing the value of conservation measures like this in protecting the environment, saving money and making a more comfortable learning environment for their students."
The federal grant was awarded to Rantoul City School District 137 through the Thermal Efficiency for Public Facilities program, a component of the State's Energy Plan, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).
The school district installed geothermal systems to replace outdated heating and air conditioning systems at Eastlawn Primary Grade Level Center, Pleasant Acres Primary Grade Level Center, Broadmeadow Intermediate Grade Level Center and Northview Intermediate Grade Level Center.
The project will result in more than 118,000 therms of natural gas being saved, enough to heat approximately 125 homes for a year.
"Conservation is good for the environment and makes good business sense," said DCEO Director Warren Ribley. "This project is a great example of how organizations of all sizes can incorporate environmental stewardship into their business models while improving their bottom line.".
Illinois received over $100 million in ARRA federal recovery funding to implement the State's Energy Plan, Illinois' most comprehensive effort to date to address the state's energy production needs.
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