CHAMPAIGN COUNTY: Budzinski Announces $2 Million to Catalyze Clean Energy Workforce in Central Illinois

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, IL — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced that the Illinois Chamber of Commerce will receive $2 million in federal funding to establish an energy auditor training program in partnership with the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission.

This investment is part of the Department of Energy’s Energy Auditor Training (EAT) Grant Program funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The EAT program is designed to help improve home energy efficiency and grow the clean energy workforce by standardizing training for multifamily building energy auditing.  

“Job training programs connect folks with good-paying careers and strengthen our workforce to meet the needs of the 21st century economy,” said Congresswoman Budzinski. “I’m thrilled to announce a $2 million federal investment for Champaign County to become a regional leader in the growing clean energy economy. Beyond the benefits for our local workforce, this grant will support important energy efficiency goals that help families save on their monthly bills and reduce pollution to build healthier communities. As a co-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition Climate Jobs Task Force, I’ll continue working to grow clean energy economies in Central and Southern Illinois with good-paying, union jobs.”

Energy audits help identify ways to reduce energy usage, promote energy efficiency, and offer energy savings to homes and businesses. The EAT program is part of the Department of Energy’s efforts to help states invest in energy efficiency and electrification initiatives that will lower energy costs, support a clean energy future and reduce energy burden. 

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