Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), has proudly declared that Louisiana will be receiving $304,157,661.00 million in Grid Resilience and Innovation Partnership (GRIP) Program funding from his Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Energy, aims to strengthen the resiliency of the electricity grid in the state.

"When writing the Infrastructure Law, strengthening the resiliency of the electricity grid was top of mind," said Dr. Cassidy. "By having a seat at the table, Louisiana is receiving the money needed to keep our lights on after the next storm hits."

The funding will be distributed to two entities in Louisiana. The Louisiana Department of Natural Resources will be granted $249,329,483.00 to launch an energy resilience initiative. This initiative will focus on enhancing statewide emergency response operations, ensuring that the state is well-prepared to handle any future disasters or severe weather events.

Entergy New Orleans, on the other hand, will receive $54,828,178.00 to enhance the resiliency of the local grid. This will involve the hardening of existing transmission lines and distribution systems, making them more robust and capable of withstanding extreme weather conditions.

The IIJA, in its entirety, includes $65 billion to bolster American energy and strengthen the electrical grid. This substantial investment reflects the government's commitment to ensuring a reliable and resilient energy infrastructure across the country.

The announcement by Senator Cassidy has been met with enthusiasm and appreciation from various stakeholders in Louisiana. The funding will not only improve the state's ability to respond to emergencies but also enhance the overall reliability of the electricity grid.

Louisiana's energy resilience initiative and the bolstering of the local grid's resiliency are crucial steps towards safeguarding the state against future storms and disruptions. The funding will undoubtedly play a significant role in mitigating the impact of severe weather events and ensuring the uninterrupted supply of electricity to Louisiana residents.

As the state continues to face the challenges posed by climate change and extreme weather, these investments in grid resilience will provide essential support and protection. With this funding, Louisiana is taking proactive measures to strengthen its infrastructure and safeguard the well-being of its residents.

In conclusion, the $304 million in funding secured by Senator Cassidy for Louisiana's grid resilience is a testament to his dedication and efforts to prioritize the state's energy infrastructure. With these investments, Louisiana is on its way to building a more robust and resilient electrical grid, ensuring the lights stay on even in the face of future storms and emergencies.

To learn more, click on this link: https://www.cassidy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cassidy-announces-304-million-for-louisiana-grid-resilience-from-his-infrastructure-law