MO Dept. of Natural Resources Offers $10 Million in Water-Wastewater Energy Loan Program, May 31 Deadline

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is offering low-interest loans to Missouri drinking water and wastewater facilities for energy efficiency projects under the Energize Missouri Water– Water and Wastewater Energy Loan Program.

The department anticipates awarding up to $10 million in financing with a 3 percent annual percentage rate for eligible projects. The loan program will provide $500,000 to $1.5 million in funding for projects to update and improve facilities with measures that will result in reduced energy costs and energy savings.

Examples of eligible projects include variable frequency drives, motors and pumps, lighting upgrades, high efficiency fans and heating ventilation and air conditioning.

“There are many opportunities for energy savings at water treatment facilities,” Sara Parker Pauley, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources said. “Municipal water supply and wastewater treatment systems are among the most energy-intensive facilities operated by local governments."

"The projects implemented as a result of these loans will help local governments and water processors achieve energy savings and follows Gov. Nixon’s initiatives to use green innovative technology to improve the environment, help create jobs and stimulate Missouri’s economy.”

Energize Missouri Water is accepting project applications for the Water and Wastewater Energy Loan Program through a competitive application process. Applications are available on the department’s website at dnr.mo.gov/transform/energizemissouriwater.htm.

All applications must be submitted to the department by May 31, 2011. For more information about the program call 573-751-7466 or email energyloan@dnr.mo.gov.

The department is committed to working closely with businesses, agricultural entities, industries and communities to assist with funding efforts that support energy efficiency and renewable energy projects and provide financial savings.

It has made Energize Missouri Water loans available through funding received from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The department is administering more than $200 million in Recovery Act funding to support Energize Missouri projects to create jobs and improve energy efficiencies and renewable energy for Missouri.