The South Alabama Regional Planning Commission is seeking the City Council’s endorsement for a plan to move forward with the possible formation of a regional energy alliance.

Jenny White, the commission’s principal planner, told members of the council during its Monday work session that the deadline to file for the $500,000 grant in question—being awarded by the Southeast Energy Efficiency Alliance—is not until mid-May, so an immediate decision is not necessary, but she is hopeful the city will consider endorsing a plan to create a regional body that would pay for energy audits for municipalities as well as private businesses and residences.

“We’re not asking for any matching funds, just a resolution of endorsement,” said White, noting the cities of Fairhope, Robertsdale and Orange Beach as well as the Baldwin County Commission have already approved such endorsements.

“We know this is a long shot. Only two or three grants will be awarded in an 11-state region, but it could certainly open the door to access additional funding down the road,” White said.

See the rest of this story in the April 23 Spanish Fort Sun.