The City of Fayetteville is the recipient of a $245,040 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) Program. In addition to this grant, the Department of Energy has approved the placement of a fully-funded EECBG Community Energy Fellow assigned to support Fayetteville’s planning efforts.
This funding, made possible by the Biden-Harris Administration's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support the development of a comprehensive energy efficiency and conservation strategy to enhance sustainability efforts across the region.
The overarching objective of this project for Fayetteville is to synergize diverse community entities, including local governments, public utilities, educational institutions and Fort Liberty, to collaboratively advance sustainability efforts.
"This grant represents a significant step forward in our commitment to building a sustainable future for Fayetteville," said Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin in a press release. "By collaborating with various stakeholders, we can create a cohesive and effective strategy that not only addresses current energy challenges but also sets the foundation for long-term sustainability and resilience."
To achieve this, Fayetteville will engage a technical consultant to develop an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy. This plan will include actionable insights and
measurable targets focused on renewable and alternative energy sources, energy efficiency measures, and broader sustainability initiatives. Community engagement is key, with the project aligning closely with the needs of Fayetteville, its regional partners,
and surrounding communities.
The intent of the strategy will focus on infrastructure enhancements, including green upgrades to public spaces and investments in electric vehicle infrastructure. These
efforts will position the region as a leader in sustainable energy practices, combining environmental stewardship with economic growth.
Overall, this project represents a vital step towards a future where environmental sustainability and economic prosperity are integrated, setting a standard for other regions to follow.
The EECBG Program is a flexible funding opportunity designed to help states, territories, local governments, and tribes improve energy efficiency, cut fossil fuel emissions and reduce energy use. Fayetteville is one of more than 2,700 communities nationwide to receive a portion of the $430 million allocated through this program.
Several communities with strong proposals and projects, including Fayetteville, have also been selected as sites for the Community Energy Fellow program.
The City of Fayetteville, fellow and community partners will work closely with technical consultants to develop and implement the EECS. This collaborative effort will ensure
that the diverse needs of the community are met and that the benefits of the program are maximized for all residents.
This is the first year of the Veteran Business Expo, and it grew out of Fayetteville PWC’s Economic Impact Program, which focuses on expanding access and opportunity in public-sector contracting while strengthening the local economy. It builds off th
Lynlene Apiary and Crafts is owned and operated by mother-daughter duo Carolyn Kleinert and Jolene Kleinert. They are certified apiarists and sell honey, candles made with beeswax, soaps and other crafts at local farmers markets. Photos by GFBJ.Lynle
Big T’s has been a local favorite of Hope Mills since 2000 when Timmy (Big T) and Donna Gray first opened right on Hope Mills Lake. It is a seasonal restaurant, so many of Big T’s loyal customers were happy to hear they would now be open year-round, seven days a week.
