Governor Doyle Announces $7.3 Million in Clean Energy Funding
First Wave of Energy Independence Grants Drives Innovation and Business Investm
WAUSAU - Governor Jim Doyle today announced $7.3 million in grants and loans from the Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund (WEIF) for research and development and commercialization or adoption of new technologies. These awards will leverage $44.2 million in investments and create new jobs for Wisconsin families on farms, in forests, in research labs and for manufacturers.
"From manufacturing wind turbines and solar panels to retro-fitting fuel pumps and exploring the latest clean technologies, our future lies in seizing green opportunities that will create good jobs for our citizens and add billions of dollars to our economy," Governor Doyle said. "Today we are awarding more than $7 million in grants and loans to companies that are committed to expanding Wisconsin's clean energy industry. "
Governor Doyle made the announcement today at American Science and Technology Corporation in Wausau. Two Wausau-area projects totaling $415,000 are receiving funding. American Science and Technology is using a $150,000 grant to turn woodchips, wood waste and switchgrass into fuel and industrial chemicals, a method which could lead to the revitalization of paper pulp manufacturing plants. Grand Meadow Energies is receiving $265,000 to develop a system that will create biodiesel from algae, whey wastes and other ingredients. Eligible applicants for the grants and loans include businesses and researchers. Governor Doyle will announce the remaining statewide grants in the coming days.
The Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund is an integral part of Clean Energy Wisconsin, Governor Doyle's strategy to strengthen Wisconsin's energy future. This comprehensive plan moves Wisconsin forward by promoting renewable energy, creating new jobs, increasing energy security and efficiency, and improving the environment.
Since coming into office, Governor Doyle has worked to make Wisconsin a leader in renewable energy. In 2007, Governor Doyle created the Office of Energy Independence to promote efforts to reduce dependence on foreign oil and advance renewable energy initiatives.
Governor Doyle's plan for energy independence includes: Generating 25 percent of our electricity and 25 percent of the fuels for our cars and trucks from renewable sources by the year 2025; capturing 10 percent of the market share for renewable energy and bioproducts, and utilizing Wisconsin's tremendous capability for research to become the country's leader in making alternative energies more affordable and available to all. For additional information, visit http://www.commerce.wi.gov/renewableenergy
A summary of Wausau-area funded projects:
Grand Meadow Energies LLC, Stratford, Marathon County, $265,000 Grant
Grand Meadow Energies LLC has developed a system to produce biodiesel fuel from algae and ethanol from whey wastes. The company will use its grant to develop an optimal blend of these feedstocks to produce biodiesel fuel.
American Science and Technology Corporation, Wausau, Marathon County, $150,000 Grant
American Science and Technology Corporation is researching the development of vehicular fuels from agricultural and forest products. It will use its grant to research a biorefinery process that can be used in existing pulp and paper manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin.
Source: Wisconsin Governor's Office
Provincial Paint Recycling Program to be Established A waste paint recycling program will soon be established in the province. The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador has implemented amendments to the Waste Management Regulations under the Environmental Protection Act in order to introduce a paint recycling program targeting waste paint products. Changes ....
Governor Doyle Announces $7.3 Million in Clean Energy Funding
First Wave of Energy Independence Grants Drives Innovation and Business Investm
WAUSAU - Governor Jim Doyle today announced $7.3 million in grants and loans from the Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund (WEIF) for research and development and commercialization or adoption of new technologies. These awards will leverage $44.2 million in investments and create new jobs ....
