U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu toured the world headquarters of WaterFurnace International, a manufacturer of residential, commercial, industrial and institutional geothermal and water source heat pumps, during a visit to Fort Wayne, IN.
While there he announced a $50 million program that will encourage the installation of geothermal heating and cooling systems. The $50 million is intended to support three programs: one to fund competitive grants for companies that manufacture geothermal heating and cooling systems; another will provide grants to improve geothermal system technology; and a third will create a national certification process to increase consumer confidence.
Secretary Chu visited the city to discuss federal recovery efforts for auto communities and workers. He also participated in a roundtable discussion with WaterFurnace executives, Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry, a WaterFurnace employee and a WaterFurnace dealer.
