The U.S. State Energy Program (SEP), established by Congress 40 years ago, is the only cost-shared program administered by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that provides resources directly to the states. A bipartisan-supported program, SEP provides complete discretion and deference to the nation's governors in the use of SEP funds within a broad statutory framework set forth by Congress.  States set their priorities for use of SEP funds on activities such as planning or and responding to energy emergencies resulting from physical and cybersecurity threats; advancing electric grid and natural gas planning and infrastructure optimization with the private sector to meet growing energy needs and support economic development; addressing energy sector affordability; and demonstrating innovative energy technologies. 

Savings

Each $1 of SEP federal funds is associated with annual savings of 1.03 million source BTUs and energy cost savings of $7.22

Leverage

Each $1 of SEP federal funds is typically leveraged by $10.71 of state and private (non-federal) funds

Contact: David Terry

The State Energy Offices, at the direction of their governors, manage strategic programs to support the private sector in increasing efficiency, developing domestic and renewable sources, promoting economic development, delivering emergency planning and response, and reducing imported oil reliance.

An Oak Ridge National Laboratory evaluation of SEP projects highlights the benefits and opportunities of SEP. ORNL found that in just one year the states produced the following results under SEP:

  • 15,264 energy audits of residential, commercial, and industrial buildings performed
  • 12,896 buildings retrofitted to be more energy efficient
  • 92,488 energy-efficient LED traffic lights installed
  • 6,434 alternative fuel vehicles purchased or converted
  • $30,403,388 in loans made and $12,345,608 in grants extended
  • 604,050 students educated on energy efficiency
  • 78 energy emergency plan elements developed


SEP Operations Manual
Provides information on SEP operations, including grant applications and monitoring.