Recently, the city of Malden was presented with National Grid’s “Shining Community Award” which is presented to communities that have put their best efforts forward to sustaining energy for the future. Malden, among four other towns and cities including Chelmsford, Newburyport, Shirley, and Salisbury, was recognized and awarded with $47,476.
Malden participated in National Grid’s Efficiency Community Initiative this year. This is a grant program designed to “support municipalities in their efforts to become more energy efficient,” explained Malden mayor, Gary Chirstenson. Malden was required to help its business owners save money on their energy bills as well as select community members in their households. The city exceeded all of its goals, specifically its audit, air sealing, and insulation goals.
The grant awarded will go towards funding LED streetlights, and other upgrades that will allow the city to build on its energy efficiency. Christenson, attended the event at National Grid’s headquarters in Waltham, Massachusetts to accept the award. “[He] thank[s] National Grid for their continued commitment to sustainable energy. [He is] grateful to the Energy Efficiency Commission, chaired by City Councillor Craig Spadafora for promoting this initiative and for moving Malden towards becoming a green community,” stated Christenson.
The future of Malden is looking bright, especially now that we as a city have become more energy efficient, and have been recognized for our efforts.
