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The University Park Town Council might apply for millions of dollars in federal energy-saving grants, but the mayor and some council members are worried they have been given too short of notice to put together an adequate proposal.

The U.S. Department of Energy first advertised $454 million in grants Oct. 19 as part of its Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program. Municipalities nationwide are required to apply by Dec. 14.

University Park is particularly interested in the 15 to 60 awards of $1 million to $5 million for residential and commercial efficiency upgrades in small towns. The funds can be used in a variety of ways, including retrofitting older homes with energy-saving technology.

Applicants must provide detailed usage plans that include support from other jurisdictions and local energy offices and are "beyond the planning stage and ready for implementation." Town officials are gauging residents' interest, but some do not believe they will be ready to apply by Dec. 14.

"This is an awful lot of outreach in a very short time," said Councilwoman Tracey Toscano (Ward 5). "I don't know why you guys would want to go through all that."

The grants were brought to the council's attention by Chuck Wilson, a town resident who works for an energy-efficiency nonprofit organization in Washington, D.C. He contacted Councilman Len Carey (Ward 4) in late October, and the two have worked since then on a committee to identify projects that could benefit from grant money.

"This is a big, complex opportunity," Wilson said at Monday's Town Council meeting. "I don't think this is an easy lift at all."

While Carey also acknowledged the town is short on time, he said the town's interest in saving energy is evident by its use of bus transportation, recycling programs and a resident-operated solar co-op. The town could also seek assistance from PEPCO in implementing any new energy projects.

"There are an abundance of indications [of interest] around town," he said. "[But] we're also interested in not biting off more than we can chew."

Despite their concerns, the council voted Monday in favor of sending a letter to the DOE saying they intend to apply. The town was required to send a letter of intent by Nov. 19, but still has the option of choosing not to submit a final proposal.

"They are not asking for a full explanation of the project [in the letter of intent]," said Mayor John Tabori. "If they were, I would say we're not ready."

Tabori requested that committee members write a detailed proposal by Dec. 5, two days before the council's next meeting. Council members would review it and then make a final decision on whether to apply.

Councilwoman Margaret Mallino (Ward 1) said while she is skeptical that the town can finish a competitive application in time, any ideas that are put forward could be used to apply for future grants.

"I have grave considerations, but I think this exercise is good for future opportunities," she said.