Richmond and San Jose are included in the list of 22 communities nationwide and four in the state receiving the help. The communities were selected as part of the Communities Local Energy Action Program, or Communities LEAP, which aims to help energy-overburdened communities.Each selected community will get help from the Energy Department with creating plans to reduce air pollution, lower utility costs and provide jobs and economic opportunity, among other things.
“The President committed to making a historic investment in our clean energy future and environmental justice,” said Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm. “With today’s Communities LEAP announcement, we will use the power of the Federal government, DOE’s National Labs and other experts to help our communities develop clear, actionable plans to reimagine their energy future and protect the health and safety of all residents.
Forty percent of the benefits from Communities LEAP will be delivered to disadvantaged communities. Communities LEAP also ensures federal investment is made in hard-hit energy communities through the Interagency Working Group on Coal and Power Plant Communities.