BOSTON — The Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust (MRET) approved $1.82 million in funding for seven projects that will use a variety of renewable energy technologies.

MRET earmarked $47 million for grants, loans and other financial support through fiscal 2002. Initially, funds are being used for leveraging resources to test the viability of a sustainable market for renewable energy. The initial round of solicitations covered a number of areas, including green power predevelopment and financing, premium power planning and installation grants.

“These awards represent a milestone in our program development,” said Greg Watson, MRET director. “The primary goal of the Trust is to help the Commonwealth shift toward a greater reliance on renewable energy resources to meet the state’s energy needs.”

Prospective applicants should consult the MRET website, www.mtpc. org/massrenew.