Topeka ? Kansas will award $3 million in grants to cities and counties so that they can make their public buildings more energy efficient.

The State Energy Office says it is taking applications for grants until July 15.

The money is available through last year’s federal economic stimulus legislation.

The money can be used for improvements such as new storm windows, better lighting controls and replacement of heating or air conditioning equipment.

State officials say such upgrades eventually pay for themselves through lower utility bills, but that some cash-strapped local governments lack the funds for such projects.