LOS ANGELES (July 6, 2022) — The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), is now accepting applications from local non-profit organizations and regulatory or public agencies for its Community Emission Reduction Grants program – an initiative dedicated to investing in projects focused on reducing the impact that air emissions have on L.A.’s hardest hit communities in the Harbor and San Fernando Valley areas.
To date, LADWP has committed more than $4.2 million to various organizations toward this effort. The Harbor and the San Fernando Valley communities are ranked high in emissions according to the CalEnviroScreen mapping program. Non-profits, regulatory or public agencies serving these areas are encouraged to apply for the grant.
“As we transition to 100% renewable energy, we must ensure that all communities throughout Los Angeles share in the benefits of a clean energy future,” said Cynthia McClain-Hill, President of the Los Angeles Board of Water and Power Commissioners. “As champions for sustainability and innovation, we believe in investing in actions that demonstrate the art of the possible when it comes to combating the effects of climate change and emissions. We aim to inspire change in the communities where we live and work.”
LADWP will provide grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 each, to fund innovative emission reduction projects that directly serve Council Districts 2, 6, 7, and 15 which cover the Harbor and San Fernando Valley. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the organizations that can present a dynamic proposal. Start-up costs can be up to 15 percent of the project, and one percent of the total costs for the project can be used for educational programs. Previously funded projects have included the installation of cool roofs and solar arrays, EV charging stations, e-bikes, and outreach.
“To help improve air quality in LA neighborhoods that have been disproportionately impacted by pollution, LADWP is investing $20 million in grants over the course of six years to reduce emissions,” said Martin Adams, LADWP General Manager and Chief Engineer. “We are committed to building partnerships with local organizations that align with our mission to create a cleaner and greener Los Angeles.”
Introduced in 2020, LADWP’s Community Emission Reduction Grants Program was established in response to a council motion to adopt a local version of a state program– the California Strategic Growth Council’s Transformative Climate Community program. Funding is generated from the proceeds of the sale of California Air Resources Board’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) credits and the California Carbon Allowances.
The application period is now open through July 15, 2022. To sign-up for an informational bootcamp or to apply, visit www.ladwp.com/emissionreductiongrants.
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