$483k Awarded to 3 Illinois Cities for Water Supply Energy Efficiency Upgrades

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Energy has awarded $483,790 to three public water supply facilities through the Public Water Supply Energy Efficiency Grant Program.

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According to a press release from the Illinois EPA, these grants are aimed at implementing cost-effective energy efficiency (EE) upgrades to drinking water treatment operations across the state.

Grants Distributed to Enhance Energy Efficiency

The City of Aurora, the City of Highland Park, and the City of Springfield are the proud recipients of this round of funding.

The City of Aurora, serving Kane and DuPage Counties, will receive $101,790. The City of Highland Park, located in Lake County, has been awarded $328,000. Lastly, the City of Springfield, in Sangamon County, will benefit from $54,000 in funding.

These funds will be used for various upgrades, including lighting and control improvements, pump and drive replacements, and HVAC modifications.

Expected Impact on Energy Consumption

The collective upgrades are projected to reduce energy consumption by over 715,000 kWh annually, underscoring a substantial impact on the facilities' operational efficiency.

Energy efficiency upgrades in public water facilities are not just about reducing operational costs—they’re integral to environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, and community well-being. These upgrades contribute to a more sustainable and resilient drinking water infrastructure that benefits all residents. -Illinois EPA Interim Director James Jennings

Funding and Program Details

The funding for these projects is part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s State Energy Program supplemental funding, which was made available through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

The Illinois EPA Office of Energy continues to offer resources and technical assistance to public water facilities, including no-cost energy efficiency assessments.

For more information on grants and available resources, visit the Illinois EPA’s Grants & Loans page.