12.18.17

Hoeven: Fargo Wins Georgetown University Energy Award, Will Help Establish $5 Million Energy Efficiency Project

WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven today issued the following statement after eFargo, the partnership between the City of Fargo and North Dakota State University (NDSU), won the Georgetown University Energy Prize. Among other things, Fargo will receive support in obtaining $5 million in financing for an energy efficiency project. The senator wrote in support of Fargo’s application in 2014.

“Congratulations to Fargo, NDSU and all of their partners on this tremendous achievement,” Hoeven said. “We’ve worked hard over the years to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship, both in the Red River Valley and across the state. This award stands as a testament to the problem-solvers who are driving the future of our economy, and we thank everyone involved for their hard work.”

The award recognizes the significant energy savings achieved by the community and its partners. The efforts arising out of the university’s challenge will be used to develop innovative energy efficiency plans that can be replicated across the nation, helping to reduce energy costs for individuals, families and businesses.

The award dovetails with Hoeven’s work to establish the state as a hub of technology entrepreneurship and innovation. At his 2017 State of Technology Conference, Hoeven stressed how technology is the third wave in North Dakota’s economic growth and is bringing new opportunities to the state’s core industries, including energy development. The senator showcased local, innovative projects – like Project Tundra, the Allam Cycle and Red Trail Energy’s project to reduce the emissions from its ethanol plant in Richardton – which will allow greater energy production with better environmental stewardship.

As a member of the Senate Energy and Energy Appropriations Committees, Hoeven continues to support these efforts and is working to ensure the final Fiscal Year 2018 funding bill provides adequate funding for carbon capture and sequestration programs. 

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