Sacramento is one of two U.S. cities set to participate in a massive energy-efficiency project assembled by British business tycoon Richard Branson.

The plan would pour an estimated $100 million into retrofitting commercial buildings in Sacramento. The company running the project, Ygrene Energy Fund of Santa Rosa, estimates the plan could generate upwards of 8,000 construction jobs for the city.

"This has the potential to be a huge economic boost for Sacramento, and would build on the foundation of the work we've done to 'green' our city," said Mayor Kevin Johnson in a prepared statement. "It represents real jobs, right now and a chance to be a showcase."

The other participating city is Miami, which is in line for $550 million in improvements.