ROCHELLE — The Rochelle Municipal Utilities (RMU) Electric Department has been awarded a $150,000 grant through the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. The grant, aimed at reducing fossil fuel emissions and promoting energy efficiency, will help RMU implement critical energy-saving initiatives in the community.

The EECBG Program is designed to assist eligible local governments in reducing energy consumption, improving energy efficiency, and building a more sustainable and equitable clean energy economy. Funding from this program will enable RMU to perform energy audits and implement energy efficiency upgrades to public facilities, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable future for Rochelle.

City Manager Jeff Fiegenschuh expressed his enthusiasm for the grant, stating, "This funding is a tremendous opportunity for our community to take meaningful steps towards reducing our energy consumption and fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future."

Blake Toliver, director of electric operations for RMU, emphasized the significance of this achievement.

"It is highly unusual for an electric utility to receive a grant of this nature, and we are excited to be recognized for our innovative approach to energy management,” Toliver said. “We want to extend our gratitude to Blackhawk Hills Regional Council for their invaluable assistance in the grant application process. Their support was instrumental in securing this funding."

RMU is committed to advancing a clean energy initiatives while ensuring that the benefits of these initiatives are accessible and equitable to all residents. This grant will ultimately help the City of Rochelle continue to build a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.