The White House today announced the state of Michigan would receive over $325 million for its energy assistance programs. The money comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) passed into law last month.  

Michigan’s chunk of the pie, $325,433,975, will be spread between two funds: $243,398,975 for the Weatherization Assistance Program and $82,035,000 for the State Energy Program.

The Weatherization Assistance Program will allow an average investment of up to $6,500 per home in energy efficiency upgrades and will be available for families making up to 200% of the federal poverty level – or about $44,000 a year for a family of four.

The State Energy Program funding will be available for rebates to consumers for home energy audits or other energy saving improvements; development of renewable energy projects for clean electricity generation and alternative fuels; promotion of Energy Star products; efficiency upgrades for state and local government buildings; and other innovative state efforts to help save families money on their energy bills.

“This energy efficiency funding for states is an important investment in making America more energy independent, creating a cleaner economy and creating more jobs for the 21st century that can’t be outsourced,” said Vice President Joe Biden.