The Missouri Department of Natural Resources is now accepting low-interest energy-improvement loan applications.

A press release says public K-12 schools, public colleges and universities, local governments- including municipal, county, regional and international airports, public water and wastewater treatment facilities and public and not-for-profit hospitals- are eligible to compete for a total of $4.5 million for energy-efficiency and renewable-energy projects throughout the state.

The loan application period runs through October 30, 2020, for loans between $10,000 and $1 million. Loan applications will be evaluated on a competitive basis by the department’s Division of Energy. If money remains after applications have been reviewed and prioritized, consideration will be given to loans in excess of $1 million.

The loans, administered as part of the Energy Loan Program, provide financing for energy-saving investments, such as high-efficiency lighting fixtures and lamps, high-efficiency heating ventilation and air-conditioning systems, combined heat and power systems, renewable energy systems, waste-heat recovery, energy-efficient fine-bubble diffusers and high-efficiency pumps; building-shell improvements, such as insulation and other infiltration measures; and other measures that reduce energy use and cost.

For a list of recipients or to learn more about the Energy Loan Program, visit energyloan.mo.gov or contact the Missouri Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Energy at (573) 751-2254 or (855) 522-2796.