WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has awarded $300 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act competitive grants for efficient, green housing. The grants will allow 36 public housing authorities across the United States to create energy efficient communities through the substantial rehabilitation of existing public housing developments or through the construction of new ones. Housing authorities in 24 states, plus the District of Columbia, will receive the HUD funding. The goal is to create public housing that conserves energy and encourages more healthy lifestyles.

Overall, $600 million in Recovery Act funds will go towards creating public housing communities that achieve improved performance through such measures as meeting Energy Star standards for new construction and using renewable energy resources. The funding is designed to help reduce energy use, generate energy savings for housing authorities and their residents, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. HUD is expected to award the remaining funds in the coming weeks.

Publication date: 10/19/2009