The U.S. House of Representatives approved legislation last week that includes more than $16 million to fund a number of water infrastructure and clean energy projects in Northeast Minnesota.

Funding for two Minnesota clean energy programs is also included. The Renewable Energy Clean Air Project planned for Koochiching County would receive $1 million in the bill. RECAP would use plasma arc technology to convert solid waste into electricity.

In addition, $1.5 million would go to the Leaders for a Sustainable Tomorrow program, which will construct buildings with a net-zero carbon footprint, and offer educational programs to show others how to use that technology.

The fiscal year 2010 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act is one of 12 appropriations bills Congress must pass to fund the operations of the U.S. government. The energy and water legislation funds vital federal programs that maintain the nation’s navigable waterways and protect habitats. The legislation also funds key energy independence programs.

“This legislation makes important investments in many important projects and programs in Northeast Minnesota,” said U.S. Rep. Jim Oberstar. “With the help of Congressman Dave Obey, we are continuing to fund the design and construction of a second lock at Sault Ste. Marie. The energy and water legislation also includes funding for the Army Corps of Engineers 569 program, which helps communities in northeast Minnesota repair aging water and sewer systems.”

The House approval of the final energy and water conference agreement sends the bill to the U.S. Senate. President Barack Obama is expected to sign the bill into law after the Senate gives its final approval.

The following projects were included in the bill:

• $969,000 — Army Corps of Engineers Section 569 program, northeast Minnesota.

• $969,000 — Ste. Sault Marie planning and design of a second lock.

• $8,613,000 — Duluth Superior Harbor, operations and maintenance.

• $3,229,000 — Reservoirs at Headwaters of Mississippi River.

• $333,000 — Two Harbors, harbor operations and maintenance.

• $1 million — Renewable Energy Clean Air Project, Koochiching County.

• $1.5 million — Today's Leaders for a Sustainable Tomorrow.