Charleston, SC - Clemson University is getting nearly $100 million in federal stimulus funds to study wind energy. The facility where the study will happen will be at a location at the former Navy base in Charleston.

U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu said Monday that the South Carolina school had been picked for the facility that will test new wind turbine technology.

The Energy Department gave Clemson $45 million in federal funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Officials say state and private sources provided $53 million in matching funds, for a total of $98 million.

Several other states have received stimulus funds to study wind energy but they pale in comparison to Clemson's award.

Chu says the facility will create needed jobs and could eventually help lower energy costs for consumers. The new facility will be part of the Clemson University Restoration Institute campus at the former Navy base in Charleston.

Sen. Lindsey Graham says,“With today’s announcement we once again see that South Carolina, through its many investments in research and technology, has a golden opportunity to lead the pack in an emerging green energy economy. Our state -- which trails in many areas -- is uniquely positioned to be one of the states to benefit the most, in the form of job creation and business investment, from clean energy.” 

“I was pleased to give my full support for Clemson’s application,” Congressman James E. Clyburn said.  “This announcement, on the heels of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner facility groundbreaking in North Charleston last week, is another game-changer for our state and for the Lowcountry.  We will set the standard and become the epicenter of our country’s development of wind turbine technology. This award is a significant step in our efforts to position South Carolina as a national leader in renewable energy.”

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