Appleton stimulus aid will boost energy conservation

From an article by Steve Wideman in the Appleton Post-Crescent:

APPLETON — The city should see its first influx of federal economic stimulus money this coming week.

City grants administrator Sarah Higgins said $689,800 from a grant fund is expected to be used in energy conservation projects.

"We are looking to upgrade energy systems at the city level that will ultimately lower property taxes," Higgins said.

The grant is part of $3.5 million in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds headed to Appleton in the coming months and at least $49.8 million in stimulus funds earmarked for Outagamie County, according to information released by the Wisconsin Recovery and Reinvestment office.

Higgins said the $689,8000 in energy funds will be used for projects to cut energy costs, including placing mechanical and electrical devices in city-owned buildings that will shut off lights and power down heating and air conditioning system when no one is using the building.

"We hope the city will lead (energy conservation efforts) by example," Higgins said.