DURHAM - Governor John Lynch and the Executive Council today approved $5.3 million for projects funded through the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Fund. As part of Governor Lynch's Green Jobs Proposal, these funds will be used to create green jobs and help families, businesses and taxpayers save on energy costs.

The fund was created through the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, which New Hampshire joined last year with the support of Governor Lynch.

"This initiative is part of our strategy to create opportunities for more green jobs, lower energy costs and a more sustainable energy future for New Hampshire," Governor Lynch said.

Some of the projects included in the approved funding are $2 million for the Business Finance Authority to establish a low-interest revolving loan fund to help businesses and nonprofits undertake energy retrofits. The Retail Merchants Association will receive $1.3 million for public outreach, energy audits, demonstration projects and retrofits for older buildings to help businesses significantly reduce the use of fuel oil ad other energy sources.

The Division of Resources and Economic Development will partner with Lakes Region Community College to develop and expand training of energy efficiency contractors and auditors. Classes will be offered at the Lakes Region campus and five other classes across the state. The $174,000 in funds will be used to offer scholarships of up to 50 percent to ensure the program is affordable.

Six other projects are included in the funding. Additional proposals for Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction funding are currently under consideration.