Five agencies in Vermont will receive about $4.7 million to provide solar thermal and solar hot water technologies for Vermont families. The funds also may be used to promote bulk buying strategies and cooperative partnerships in buying solar technologies in order to lower the costs of materials.  Community-based marketing approaches to help families save energy and money also may be funded under the grants. Sen. Bernie Sanders, a member of the Senate energy committee, has pointed with pride to Vermont's record a the national leader in taking dramatic steps toward energy efficiency. By making low-income homes more energy efficient, families save an average of $437 on their energy bills, according the U.S. Department of Energy.

The Vermont grant recipients were among 120 organizations across the country selected to receive $120 million under the U.S. Department of Energy's Weatherization Assistance Program.

The Bennington-Rutland Opportunity Council, Inc., located in Rutland, will receive $900,000.

The Central Vermont Community Action Council, Inc., based in Barre, will receive $900,000.

The Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity, Inc., located in Burlington and Hinesburg, will receive more than $1.1 million, and will undertake program management and evaluation in addition to the project.

The Northeast Employment & Training Organization, Inc., based in Derby and St. Johnsbury, will receive $900,000.

The South Eastern Vermont Community Action, Inc, located in Westminster, will receive over $900,000.

To read more about energy efficiency in Vermont, click here.