The Eastern Maine Development Corporation will receive more than $2 million in Recovery Act funds to help launch a program to teach people how to build so-called "green" homes.

A Bangor-based economic development non-profit has been awarded more than $2 million in Recovery Act money to establish a "green" construction skills training program.

The Eastern Maine Development Corporation will receive $2,109,088 from the U.S. Department of Labor for the initiative, says Maine 2nd District Congressman Mike Michaud. The money is part of $150 million the federal government is distributing nationwide for similar programs, according to the White House.

"Despite the economic downturn, green industries present opportunities for individuals to learn new skills, gain employment, and advance careers," Michaud says in a statement announcing the grant. 

EDMC will partner with Eastern Maine Community College and others to train workers to build and retrofit energy efficient "green" buildings, Michaud says. The initiative includes construction of  seven energy efficient replacement homes in local communities.

The EMDC Green Construction skills training program is expected to award 105 participants with a degree or certificate, Michaud says.