Michigan Rep. Wants Audit of Stimulus-Funded Energy Projects

How much money is going to waste?

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — Frustrated by wasted taxpayer dollars and unrealistic expectations of the beleaguered LG Chem battery program in his home district, U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga demanded the government audit more stimulus-funded manufacturing projects.

A scathing audit by the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Inspector General found that despite spending a majority of its $151 million stimulus grant, LG Chem Michigan in Holland had yet to produce a battery for use in a commercial electric cars. The Inspector General's report also caused LG Chem to refund the government $842,000 paid to employees to volunteer, watch movies and play games.