A Small Business Energy Grant program was approved Tuesday by the city council. The program reimburses businesses that, through the program, have taken actions to reduce their total energy use and improve energy efficiency. Reimbursement will come in the form of a grant.

The city is partnering with Puget Sound Energy to make $98,000 in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act money available for the program. PSE will conduct a walk through of interested businesses and provide tips for cutting energy costs. The program will provide a one-time grant of up to $5,000 to help businesses perform the necessary energy improvements.

The energy program requires the applicant pay for improvements, in total, upfront. Grant funds, up to 90 percent of the total cost of the energy-saving activities, will be reimbursed to the applicant once city staff has verified the work.

Eligible applicants must own and operate a small business within City of Federal Way boundaries. A business license is required. The program is operating on a first come, first served model.

For more information call Bryant Enge at (253) 835-2510 or e-mail bryant.enge@cityoffederalway.com.