Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Development on May 8th, announced $3.1 million in grants to support localized efforts to improve energy efficiency. 

The funding comes from the Advanced Energy Fund, which allocates a total of $8.5 million to help businesses, nonprofits, municipalities, educational institutions, and more complete energy efficiency projects designed to reduce costs, better the environment, and improve the lives of people in Ohio’s communities. 

"Investing in energy efficiency projects is a catalyst for economic growth and community well-being," said Governor Mike DeWine. “This funding allows for important energy efficient upgrades and cost savings for various buildings and facilities throughout Ohio.” 

“Whether it's upgrading to LED lighting or implementing innovative energy solutions, every step forward paves the way for a brighter future for our environment and frees up resources for reinvestment – driving prosperity and enhancing livelihoods across Ohio ," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development.

Four organizations across three counties were selected to receive funding through this program for energy efficiency retrofits, insulation, LED lighting, HVAC upgrades, high-efficiency boilers, chillers, and burners, weather sealing, windows and doors, and more.    

All projects selected for funding must show a reduction of at least 15 percent in utility energy usage, ensuring a tangible and measurable impact on energy efficiency in their communities. 

The following entities will receive grant funds: 

9410 Hough, Inc. (Cuyahoga County) will receive a $557,000 grant to help transform a long-vacant building into a contemporary 116-unit property in Cleveland’s underserved Hough neighborhood. The project will incorporate both healthcare and economic empowerment from construction through the long-term operation of the project. Project activities will include a new roof, installation of a wall/window system, installation of LED lighting, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, installation of gas water heaters, and a new HVAC system. The project is expected to yield an annual utility savings of 33 percent. 

The Olympia Foundation (Cuyahoga County) will receive a a $361,095 grant to rehabilitate the three-story Olympia Building, a 20-unit low-income housing and seven-unit commercial storefront in Cleveland. The building was constructed in 1912 and has yet to receive any energy efficiency upgrades. Project activities include LED lighting upgrades, high-efficiency heat pumps, updating the hot water system, upgrading the building envelope, and a solar PV array. The project is expected to yield an annual utility savings of 49 percent.

Montgomery County Convention Facilities Authority (Montgomery County) will receive a $910,000 grant as part of a transformative $45 million renovation project, including numerous structural, mechanical, and cosmetic upgrades to almost every square inch of the facility. Project activities will include LED lighting, replacing the facility’s boiler, as well as variable-frequency drives on pumps and fans. The project is expected to yield an annual utility savings of 19.7 percent. 

Mansfield Memorial Homes (Richland County) will receive a $1.35 million grant to update the building’s HVAC, HVAC controls, install energy efficient lighting, and install a solar system. The facility provides comprehensive short- and long-term care, as well as housing for senior citizens. The project is expected to yield annual utility savings of 25 percent.