Lakewood is one of only 19 agencies nationwide to receive a federal grant aimed at enhancing sustainability efforts. The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded the city’s Sustainability & Community Development Department a $5 million grant to support owners of the city’s largest buildings in increasing energy efficiency, transitioning to clean energy sources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The grant will facilitate the development of a building performance program focused on commercial, multifamily and public buildings. “This grant is a major win for our sustainability goals and demonstrates just how much effort Lakewood is putting into creating a sustainable and green future,” said Mayor Wendi Strom. “With these funds, we will be able to reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and create local green jobs.”
Buildings are the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in Lakewood, accounting for 42% of the city’s overall climate-changing emissions due to the energy required for systems such as lighting and HVAC units.
The program is designed to be equitable, providing resources for building owners, supporting the transition to clean energy and investing in local “green” job workforce development. Energy benchmarking will allow building owners to regularly monitor and report their energy use, assisting in tracking changes and achieving efficiency improvements. The city plans to collaborate with building owners, residents, technical experts and other community members to develop this program.