05-05-2025
Local schools awarded $1.3M energy efficiency grant
EAST PALESTINE, Ohio (WKBN) — The East Palestine City School District will receive a significant piece of a statewide grant aimed at supporting energy efficiency.
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The Ohio Department of Development announced nearly $8.5 million in grants to support energy efficiency projects in eight counties across the state. Locally, the East Palestine City School District will receive $1,363,533.
The funds will go toward upgrading building automation systems and complete LED lighting retrofits at the elementary school, middle school, high school and board of education buildings.
The project is expected to yield an annual utility savings of 72.5%.
The funding comes from the third round of the Advanced Energy Fund, which allocates a total of $8.5 million to help businesses, nonprofits, municipalities and educational institutions complete projects designed to reduce energy usage and associated costs.
'When organizations can spend less on their energy bills, they can invest more in what really matters — serving their communities,' said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development. 'These grants are making it possible for more schools, nonprofits, and local businesses to commit to their missions and make an even greater impact on the lives of Ohioans.'
All projects selected for funding must show a reduction of at least 15% in utility energy usage, ensuring a tangible and measurable impact on energy efficiency in their communities.
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