BLAINE - The city has received a $500,000 Washington state grant for a project to help lower its energy costs.

The money was part of nearly $18 million distributed by the state's Energy Efficiency Grant program to 12 colleges and universities as well as 37 local governments.

The program aims to reduce energy use. The grant dollars will help pay for projects that are expected to create 543 jobs through construction spending, according to the news release from Gov. Jay Inslee.

The money will be used to increase energy efficiency in Blaine's key facilities, including the wastewater treatment plant, which is one of the city's highest energy consumers, said Public Works Director Ravyn Whitewolf.

It is part of a larger $2.8 million project, for which the city is awaiting word on additional funding and financing options.

"This was the critical spark that will ignite the project funding package. Now that this is in hand, we'll go full speed ahead," Whitewolf said of the state grant.

Reach Kie Relyea at 360-715-2234 or kie.relyea@bellinghamherald.com.