Rock Island Today

WILLIAMSFIELD, IL – Congressman Eric Sorensen (IL-17) visited Williamsfield Schools to highlight recently-announced federal investments for energy upgrades that will lower utility costs, improve air quality, and create healthier learning environments.  

"We need to work together at the federal and local levels to provide the best possible environments for our kids to learn and grow, creating a better world for future generations," said Sorensen. "I applaud Williamsfield Schools for being awarded this critical funding to showcase how investments in renewable energy and clean transportation can have a positive impact on our communities." 

"Eight years ago, our students constructed a model for a community microgrid. We are proud of how the concept evolved, extremely thankful for the funding to make it real, and super excited to help other schools construct similar microgrids in their communities. In the end, we all breathe a little easier when we work together to lower emissions,” said Williamsfield Schools Superintendent Tim Farquer.  

The visit comes after $14,994,951 in funding was announced from the Department of Energy (DOE)’s Renew America’s Schools Program to a coalition of 20 school districts across Illinois, including seven located at least partially in Illinois’ 17th Congressional District.  

During the visit, Sorensen toured school facilities and saw firsthand how the funding will be used to modernize Williamsfield Schools’ energy system, support electric school buses, and provide backup power during emergencies. 

The purpose of the Renew America’s Schools Program is to support energy improvements in K–12 schools across the country. 

Sorensen also visited classrooms and hosted a roundtable with students, teachers, and school administrators. 

Congressman Eric Sorensen is the first openly LGBTQ person elected to represent Illinois at the federal level and is a member of the New Democrat Coalition. He serves on the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Prior to serving in Congress, Sorensen was a local meteorologist in Rockford and the Quad Cities for nearly 20 years. His district includes Illinois’ Quad Cities, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal. 

Original source can be found here.