Representative David K. Muradian, Jr. (R-Grafton), is excited to announce that the town of Upton has been awarded a grant of $170,633 as part of the Massachusetts Green Communities Grant Program.
The Green Communities Act helps encourage all 351 cities and towns in Massachusetts find clean energy solutions. In the long run, this helps decrease long-term energy costs and improves local economies. In order to be a candidate for the grant program communities must meet five criteria. First, designated locations for renewable energy generation must be established. They must then adopt an expedited application and permit for possible energy facilities. Next, a baseline should be developed to reduce energy by 20% within five years. The communities must purchase fuel-efficient vehicles only, and finally they must set requirements to minimize life-cycle costs for new construction.
The grant can be used for a range of projects. In the past, some communities have dedicated their funds towards ventilation system upgrades, high- efficiency lighting installation at municipal buildings and facilities, and switching streetlights to LED bulbs.
“The Commonwealth of Massachusetts continues to lead the country in energy efficient initiatives with the Green Communities Act,” stated Representative Muradian. “It is absolutely wonderful that Upton has been awarded these funds in order to help decrease their energy use. Taking care of our environment is very important and I am proud to see our town recognized for these efforts.”
The awards were presented to the 47 Communities on June 28th at the Auburn Town Offices. Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton and Department of Energy Resources Commission Judith Judson attended the ceremony in support of all recipients.
Any constituent who wishes to speak to Representative Muradian or his staff please call (617) 722-2240 or e-mail at David.Muradian@MAHouse.gov. Constituents should also visitwww.davidmuradian.com for updates about the district and Rep. Muradian’s Office.
UPTON DAILY 