Grand Portage among six bands to receive energy efficiency funds

The Minnesota Chippewa Tribe has been awarded over $700,000 to help six reservations reduce energy use and create green jobs. The funding will be divided up among the reservations that make up the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe. In addition to the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, the funding includes the Bois Forte (Nett Lake), Fond du Lac, Leech Lake, Mille Lacs and White Earth bands.

Rep. Jim Oberstar made the announcement on last week. “This is an investment that will have an immediate return, creating jobs weatherizing homes and businesses,” said Oberstar. “It will also pay long term dividends.

 

Oberstar added, “Lowering energy costs will put more money in the pockets of home and business owners, which will stimulate economic growth, enhance energy efficiency and help reduce our dependence on foreign oil.”

Grand Portage will receive $50,000 to help create green jobs and sustainable energy project. The funding comes from a provision in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act which directs the Department of Energy to create jobs by investing in energy efficiency programs.