For the first time, the U.S. EPA, through its Local Climate and Energy Program, is opening a competitive grant program for local and tribal governments that want to establish and implement climate change initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in their communities. The agency expects to award approximately 30 cooperative agreements, each one ranging from $100,000 to $500,000.

“Ending climate change and moving to a sustainable, clean energy future begins on the ground in our communities,” said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson.  “We’re offering a helping hand to local areas that are leading the way in confronting climate change, and a call to action for anyone concerned about making a difference where they live.  We can cut energy costs and reduce harmful emissions at the local level, and build a model for fighting climate change in every community.”

EPA requests proposals from local governments, federally-recognized Indian tribal governments, and inter-tribal consortia to create replicable models of sustainable community action, generate cost-effective greenhouse gas reductions, and improve the environmental, economic, public health, and social conditions in a community. 

In addition, over the course of the grant program, EPA will offer training and technical support to grant recipients, and share lessons learned with communities across the nation. Proposals are due by July 22, 2009.  Grants are expected to be awarded in January 2010.

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