David Austin

Georgia Environmental Finance Authority

Founded in 1985, the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) directs programs that improve Georgia's environment, protect natural resources, and promote economic development. GEFA provides loans for water, sewer, and solid waste infrastructure; manages energy efficiency and renewable energy programs; administers land conservation loans; and monitors state-owned fuel storage tanks. To date, GEFA has provided more than $5.5 billion in low-interest loans to cities, counties, and infrastructure authorities for more than 2,100 projects that improve water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste systems. GEFA's divisions and programs include: The Energy Resources Division promotes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and energy assurance programs to improve environmental quality and stimulate sustainable economic development. The Water Resources Division supports the development of water, wastewater, and solid waste infrastructure projects, which help protect the environment, facilitate economic development, accommodate population growth, and safeguard public health. The Financial Services Division provides financial underwriting and loan servicing for Georgia communities, including financial underwriting and loan servicing. The division also ensures compliance with agency, state, and federal fiscal policies and procedures. The Fuel Storage Tank Program provides a cleaner and healthier environment for all Georgians through the management and monitoring of state-owned fuel storage tanks.